U.S. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-KSB
ANNUAL REPORT UNDER SECTION 13 OR 15 (d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended June 30, 1999
Commission file number 000-23835
HomeSeekers.com, Incorporated
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(Name of Small Business Issuer in its Charter)
Nevada 87-0397464
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(State or Other Jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer
Incorporation or Organization) Identification No.)
2241 Park Place, Suite E, Minden, Nevada 89423-8602
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(Address of Principal Executive Offices) (Zip Code)
(775) 782-2977
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(Issuer's Telephone Number)
Securities registered under Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of Each Class Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered
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None
Securities registered under Section 12(g) of the Exchange Act:
Common Stock, $.001 par value
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(Title of Class)
Check whether the issuer (1) filed all reports required to be filed by Section
13 or 15 (d) of the Exchange Act during the past 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 [ ]
Check if there is no disclosure of delinquent filers in response to Item 405 of
Regulation S-B contained in this form, and no disclosure will be contained, to
the best of the registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information
statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-KSB or any
amendment to this Form 10-KSB. [ ]
State issuer's revenues for its most recent fiscal year. $ 3,419,000.
State the aggregate market value of the voting stock held by non-affiliates
computed by reference to the price at which the stock was sold, or the average
bid and asked prices of such stock, as of a specified date within the past 60
days.
Based on the closing price of the common stock quoted on the OTC Bulletin Board
as reported on August 31, 1999 ($8.38), the aggregate market value of the
14,143,009 shares of the common stock held by the persons other than officers,
directors and persons known to the Registrant to be the beneficial owner (as
that term is defined under the rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission)
of more than five percent of the Common Stock on that date was approximately
$118,518,415. By the foregoing statements, the Registrant does not intend to
imply that any of these officers, directors or beneficial owners are affiliates
of the Registrant or that the aggregate market value, as computed pursuant to
rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission, is in any way indicative or the
amount which could be obtained for such shares of common stock.
(APPLICABLE ONLY TO CORPORATE REGISTRANTS)
State the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes of common
equity, as of the latest practicable date: August 31, 1999: 15,205,778.
This report contains a total of 80 pages.
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PART I
ITEM 1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS
Other than historical and factual statements, the matters and items
discussed in this Annual Report on Form 10-KSB are forward-looking statements
that involve risks and uncertainties. Our actual results may differ materially
from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements. Certain factors
that could contribute to such differences are discussed with the forward-looking
statements throughout this report.
General
Our Company is known as HomeSeekers.com, Incorporated and we are a
leading provider of online residential real estate information for use by
homebuyers, real estate agents, mortgage and title insurance companies and other
individuals. Through HomeSeekers(TM) (HomeSeekers), our proprietary Internet
product available at www.HomeSeekers.com, or through HomeSeekers/CityNet(TM)
(HomeSeekers/CityNet), our proprietary Intranet product, users can search for a
home within a specified geographical area and with desired features such as
number of bedrooms and baths, security, and other added features and apply for a
mortgage and title insurance.
Currently, public access to residential real estate has taken many
forms on the Internet. There are numerous sites on the Internet that advertise
homes for sale. Brokerage chains and others have developed their own web sites.
Individually owned and operated franchises and individual real estate agents
have also created their own web sites. City based web sites are carrying a
subset of real estate listings. However, the quality of the data presented on
certain of these web sites is highly selective and not comprehensive. We believe
we have developed a quality database upon which we can build in order to provide
nationwide residential real estate information.
The products and services offered by us can generally be classified as
internet marketing services for real estate agents, real estate agent
productivity tools or other products and services. During 1999 we consider that
we operate in one business segment because of the related nature of these
products and services. Our current products and services include 1)
HomeSeekers(TM) and HomeSeekers/CityNet(TM) products, 2) Realty 2000(R) (R2K), a
desktop software productivity package targeted to real estate agents, 3)
MLS2000(TM) (MLS2K), an Internet-based multiple listing system that is projected
to enable real estate agents to access real estate listings via the Internet,
instead of through traditional dial-up access systems, 4) regional real estate
data publishing for consumers, 5) custom technical services and 6) various
strategic alliances.
Our administrative office is located at 2241 Park Place, Suite E,
Minden, Nevada 89423; telephone (775) 782-2977. We also maintain branch offices
at 2800 Saturn Street, Brea, California 92621; telephone (714) 993-4295 and at
6490 S. McCarran Blvd., Suite 28, Reno, Nevada; telephone (775) 827-6886. Our
fiscal year end is June 30.
Background
Nevada Data Systems, Inc. (Nevada Data), a predecessor of our company,
was incorporated under the laws of the State of Nevada on October 28, 1987, and
in February 1989, changed its name to NDS Software. From 1987 through 1994,
Nevada Data engaged in the development and marketing of Realty 2000(R), a
proprietary software package providing real estate customer and property
database information for use by realtors. In 1994, Nevada Data introduced
HomeSearch 2000, an Internet search database permitting users to identify
property meeting the users' specifications. HomeSearch 2000 was the precursor to
our HomeSeekers/CityNet(TM) product.
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XRF Corporation (XRF), a predecessor of our company, was organized
under the laws of the State of Utah on January 31, 1983 under the name of Aurora
Energy, Inc. From inception until 1989, XRF was involved in the portable X-ray
fluorescent spectrometer business. During 1987 and 1988 XRF also provided
engineering services and contract manufacturing operations. From 1989 until 1992
XRF sought out a different business to operate, and from 1992 until 1994, was
involved in medical transcription correspondence training.
In July 1994, Nevada Data merged with and into XRF, and changed its
name to NDS Software, Inc. (NDS). Prior to the time of the merger, XRF had
disposed of its business operations and at the time of the merger was not
engaged in revenue producing activities.
NDS was incorporated under the laws of the State of Nevada on September
28, 1994, as a wholly owned subsidiary of XRF. On October 4, 1994, XRF merged
with and into NDS. References in this Registration Statement to our company
include its predecessors Nevada Data and XRF and NDS. Effective July 1, 1998, we
changed our name to HomeSeekers.com, Incorporated.
On May 8, 1996, we acquired 100% of the outstanding capital stock of
Visual Listings, Inc. (VLI), a California corporation organized in 1992. VLI
developed HomeSeekers(TM), our proprietary Internet product that enables
potential homebuyers to view all homes for sale in a subscribing Multiple
Listing Service (MLS) geographic area. VLI was acquired in exchange for 280,000
shares of our common stock.
In August 1998, we acquired the customer list and certain other assets
of Genstar Media, a recently formed company engaged in the sale of web sites to
real estate agents. In connection with this acquisition, we engaged the
principal officer and shareholder of Genstar Media, and certain of its other
employees, as our employees. The purchase price for the assets acquired was
50,000 shares of our common stock.
On May 28, 1999, we acquired all of the outstanding shares of Holloway
Publications, Inc. (HPI), an Indiana corporation for 150,872 shares of our
common stock. HPI was founded in 1991, and is a publisher of real estate listing
magazines, including "Homes and Condos", with circulation primarily in the
Midwestern United States.
The Industry and Market
The emergence and acceptance of the Internet is fundamentally changing
the way that consumers and businesses communicate, obtain information, purchase
goods and services and transact business. Because of its size, fragmented nature
and reliance on the exchange of information, the real estate industry is
particularly well suited to benefit from the Internet. We provide real estate
professionals, consumers and the real estate industry with online access to home
listings and access to providers of ancillary services including home mortgages
and home disclosure information. Additionally, we are complementing our
Internet-based services by providing real estate listings in print media,
desktop software for real estate agents, MLS systems and data aggregation
services.
The real estate industry is a large sector of the United States
economy. A significant industry has evolved around helping consumers as they
navigate through the real estate purchase or rental process. A substantial
network of support services and products exists to assist consumers in all
facets of the real estate transaction.
When buying or selling real estate, consumers require a variety of
products and services. The real estate transaction offers service providers and
retailers the opportunity to target consumers. Service providers and retailers
of these products need an effective mechanism to reach consumers who are most
interested in their offerings. We offer a centralized location where providers
of ancillary products and services can advertise their offerings to a target
group of consumers who are engaged in the real estate process.
Business Strategy
Our business strategy is to provide high quality, comprehensive, and
reliable products and services that present to consumers and real estate
professionals a comprehensive up-to-date national database of residential real
estate listings and complementary services. In order to achieve these goals, we
have and plan to continue to enter into agreements with MLS systems and realtors
in major real estate markets. We also plan to expand the number of local,
regional and national companies advertising on the HomeSeekers(TM) and
HomeSeekers/CityNet(TM) databases. We anticipate that we will require additional
funds to finance our growth, including hiring additional marketing, sales and
support personnel to help generate additional revenue. There is no assurance
that additional funding will be available to us on favorable terms, or at all.
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We believe that our primary competitive advantage is our products and
services offered. Our opinion is that we have a wider suite of services and
products for the realtor, broker, MLS, and real estate consumers than any other
Internet site.
Products and Services
Overview
The products and services offered by us can generally be classified as
internet marketing services for real estate agents, real estate agent
productivity tools or other products and services. Our current products and
services include 1) HomeSeekers(TM) and HomeSeekers/CityNet(TM) products, 2)
Realty 2000(R) (R2K), a desktop software productivity package geared to real
estate agents, 3) MLS2000(TM) (MLS2K), an Internet-based multiple listing system
that is projected to enable real estate agents to access real estate listings
via the Internet, instead of through traditional dial-up access systems, 4)
regional real estate data publishing for consumers, 5) custom technical services
and 6) various strategic alliances.
HomeSeekers-HomeSeekers/CityNet Product
Through our proprietary Internet product, HomeSeekers(TM) (available at
our web site, HomeSeekers.com), and our Intranet product,
HomeSeekers/CityNet(TM), we provide prospective homebuyers access to homes for
sale in a subscribing MLS geographical region. HomeSeekers(TM) and
HomeSeekers/CityNet(TM) employ a sophisticated search engine with numerous
searchable fields to allow both broadly and narrowly defined searches. The
systems will search, find and display all listings that match a prospective
buyer's criteria, including a preferred location within a city or state, number
of bedrooms and baths, and other desired features. The product's feature, "Let
the Listings Find You(TM)", allows users to enter their search, save it, and
automatically search for updated inventory, thus increasing our web site hits.
Our systems also permit users to apply for and arrange for a mortgage and title
insurance.
Real estate MLSs aggregate and manage real estate listings for regional
Boards of Realtors. There are approximately 900 MLSs nationwide. We contract
with various MLSs to acquire the right to include their listings on our
HomeSeekers.com Internet web site. The contracts generally require a quarterly
fee to be paid to the MLS for the right to use its data.
Our approach, along with our quality/integrity control systems, allows
us to maintain accurate and up-to-date information available to potential
homebuyers, which in turn, may lead to increased advertising and usage fee
revenue. Unlike certain of our competitors who, we believe, do not update their
listings every day, we believe that we are the only web site to update our
listing data on a daily basis.
Since offering HomeSeekers(TM)and HomeSeekers/CityNet(TM), the number
of homes viewed per month has increased from 800,000 in January 1996 to over
15,000,000 as of June 1999.
Realty2000
Our Realty 2000(R)(R2K) software program was originally introduced in
1988 and has had over 20,000 users to date. An upgraded version of Realty
2000(R), is currently projected to be released prior to year-end. This product
is an agent productivity software program that is designed to enable real estate
agents to operate their businesses more efficiently.
R2K provides real estate agents with a client contact package, a sales
flyer producer, a scheduler, a digital camera interface, a financial calculator,
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word processor and a comparative market analysis (CMA) tool in markets where
HomeSeekers.com has contracted for real estate listing data. In addition, an
agent is able to launch directly to the Internet and send and/or receive E-mail.
Agents may also send an E-mail version of their flyers to clients, E-mail a CMA
to a client, access the Internet or access our advertising partners directly
from the R2K "Channel Bar". This is designed to enable the agent to initiate
transactions for title insurance, mortgages, home insurance, home disclosure, or
HomeSeekers.com Internet products.
MLS2000
MLS2000(TM) (MLS2K), is a powerful tool that we are currently
developing for the MLS market place. It is an Internet-based multiple listing
system designed to allow an MLS to run MLS2K in tandem with its conventional
real estate listing management system. MLS2K is intended to enable real estate
agents to access real estate listings via the Internet, instead of through
traditional dial-up access systems.
MLS2K is designed to provide the agent more efficient access to MLS
data. The projected advantage to the MLSs is that this product should be
significantly more cost effective than their existing systems. MLS2K is designed
to use R2K as the agent interface product. This usage should provide the
additional advantage of increasing the exposure to our R2K product.
Holloway Publications
On May 28, 1999, we acquired all of the outstanding shares of Holloway
Publications, Inc. (HPI), an Indiana corporation for 150,872 shares of our
common stock. HPI was founded in 1991, and is a publisher of real estate listing
magazines, including "Homes and Condos", with circulation primarily in the
Midwestern United States. We purchased HPI to complement our existing services
and products provided to real estate professionals and consumers. We are also
changing the name of HPI's primary publications to the "HomeSeekers.com" name,
which is projected to strengthen the branding of our Internet site.
Executive Net Services
Our Executive Net Services(TM) (ENS) division of the Company, provides
technical services, and on a project basis, is targeted at small to medium-based
businesses. In particular, ENS provides Internet/Intranet solutions, including
designing and Internet presence management, architecture and planning. This
includes designing and assessing hardware, software, operating systems and other
product needs, systems analysis and design. ENS also focuses on developing
system blueprints with flexibility for future requirements; database design,
network design, administration and installation. Additionally, ENS provides
installation and fine- tuning of software solutions along with software
development, testing and implementation.
Strategic Alliances
Our strategy has involved the use of strategic alliances intended to
foster growth and expand our presence in the market place. We plan to continue
this thrust in the future. Over time, such alliances have, and will continue to
grow, change, be adjusted and/or discontinued as market conditions and/or our
experience dictates. The following is a brief description of several of our
strategic alliances:
We have two relationship agreements with Microsoft Corporation
(Microsoft). The first agreement was developed in February 1999 when we started
a fee-based aggregation of Microsoft's real estate listings for their
www.HomeAdvisor.com (HomeAdvisor) Internet site. Additionally, for those real
estate listings provided to us where the provider has allowed, we share these
listings with Microsoft on their HomeAdvisor site for a fee. This agreement
increases the real estate listings' exposure on the Internet by being listed on
both our Internet site and Microsoft's Internet site.
The second relationship agreement with Microsoft started in May 1999,
whereby we produce agent web pages, at no cost to the real estate agent who
requests this from either Microsoft or us. This acts as a finding tool for us to
increase the agent pool to which we can market our web sites and other products.
We have had a relationship with Finet Holdings Corporation (Finet) for
two years where we provide Finet mortgage customer leads from our Internet web
site. Finet is a home mortgage brokerage that operates on the Internet. We
entered into a license agreement with Finet in May 1999, where we have created,
with Finet's assistance, a mortgage loan center at www.interloan.com/HomeSeekers
on the Internet. We are supplying mortgage applicant leads to Finet in exchange
for certain cash payments.
Vista Information Solutions, Inc. (Vista), is an on-line provider of
home disclosure and home insurance information. On October 29, 1998, we entered
into a technology alliance with Vista under which Vista agreed to pay us
positioning fees. In mid-1998, the State of California legislated that a home
seller must provide home buyers with a home disclosure report, which is an
environmental report covering items of potential risk such as fire, earthquake,
flood, etc. We plan to capture a portion of this market through royalties we
expect to receive from sales of Vista's reports on our web site.
In April 1998, we entered into an agreement with Michigan Multiple
Listing Service (MMLS), to develop software solutions to enable MMLS to offer a
public access lead generation Intranet system for the advertising of multiple
listing data, real estate agents, brokers and related services. These software
products include our HomeSeekers/CityNet(TM) and Realty 2000(R) products, and
are intended for use by MMLS to generate advertising revenues based on their
real estate listing data.
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Strategic Acquisitions
In addition to our strategic alliances, we have historically employed a
growth through acquisition approach to expand our products and services. This
approach includes the acquisition of assets or outstanding equity of businesses
operated by third parties in consideration for which we pay the third party or
its stockholders cash, our securities, or a combination of cash and securities.
This approach also permits us to expand our revenue base without certain of the
start-up and/or development costs typically associated with the introduction of
new products and/or services. We intend to continue our growth through this
acquisition approach in the future. We are in various stages of discussion with
several parties that could eventually lead to one or more acquisitions.
Marketing
We have an extensive marketing program, which is targeted to real
estate professionals, consumers and other real estate related service providers.
Advertising is done via a number of different media outlets, from television to
radio to various types of print media. Public relations is handled through an
outside consulting group.
Together with our advertising campaigns, our sales force plays a
pivotal role our marketing strategy. Our direct sales staff and telemarketing
personnel maintain continual contact with our targeted customer pool to maintain
the database that is used for additional marketing follow-up.
Sales
We use both in-house and outside direct sales personnel who market our
products directly to the real estate industry. We currently use primarily three
sales channels: 1) seminars, 2) direct sales, and 3) telemarketing to market our
products and generate revenues. These channels are targeted at real estate
industry professionals interested in marketing their services via the Internet.
The intent is to generate revenues through web site and page sales in addition
to recruiting advertisers to our site. The direct sales channel includes
promoting, marketing and selling our products and services to real estate
related organizations throughout the United States.
Trademarks, Copyrights and Proprietary Rights
We have not sought patent protection for our proprietary software
system, although we may apply for patents on various aspects of our programs in
the future. Rather, will seek to maintain our proprietary rights by trade secret
protection, copyright notices, non-competition and non-disclosure agreements
with our employees and, as required, with our vendors. We may seek formal
copyright and/or patent protection for our software program applications and
obtain patents where feasible. There can be no assurance that meaningful
proprietary protection can be attained as a result of such filing, and any
proprietary rights that we could choose to protect through legal action may
involve substantial costs.
We believe that the technology edge we currently enjoy will likely
lessen over time and in order to be competitive, we must provide a high quality,
continually improving, complete solution to consumers, real estate agents and
the MLS systems. We believe our core technical competence of computer
programming and knowledge of the real estate market will allow us to maintain
leading edge products and services that will have value in the marketplace. We
have obtained federal trademark protection for our Realty 2000(R) mark and we
have filed for federal trademark protection for our HomeSeekers(TM) mark. As to
other proprietary marks, we have not sought formal trademark protection, but we
claim common law ownership of such marks.
Employees
We currently have 108 full-time employees and 7 part-time employees.
Our employees consist of 24 in administration and management, 51 in sales and
marketing, 15 in technical support and 25 in programming.
ITEM 2. DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY.
We lease 17,298 square feet of office and storage space in Brea,
California from an unaffiliated party. The terms of the two leases are six years
and started on August 1, 1998. Monthly lease payments total $16,502 and one
lease increases at 5% per year and the other lease increases based on the annual
change in the CPI. Both leases can be extended at our option for an additional
five years with comparable annual rate increase terms.
We lease 6,325 square feet of office space at our Minden, Nevada
location from an unaffiliated party. The lease term, which will be extended on
September 15, 1999, is for three years. Monthly lease payments total $6,524 and
increase based on the annual change in the CPI, not to exceed 8% per year. The
lease can be extended at our option for an additional three years with
comparable annual rate increase terms.
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We lease 3,656 square feet of office space at our Reno, Nevada
corporate headquarters from an unaffiliated party. The lease term, which
commenced on July 1, 1999, is for an 18-month term. Monthly lease payments total
$5,684.
We lease 771 square feet of office space at our Los Angeles, California
location from an unaffiliated party. The lease term, which commenced on August
1, 1998, is for two years. Monthly lease payments total $1,232.
We lease approximately 974 square feet of office space at our Carmel,
Indiana Holloway Publications location from an unaffiliated party. The lease
term, which commenced on October 1, 1998, is for one year. We are currently
seeking new, expanded facilities in the same geographic area to replace the
existing lease upon expiration of its term. We believe that comparable space is
available on reasonable economic terms. Monthly lease payments total $643.
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
We are not involved in any legal proceedings that we believe
individually or in the aggregate, will have material adverse effect upon our
financial condition or results of operations. A complaint has been filed in the
U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Washington against us by
HomeSeekers Magazines, Inc. alleging violations of claimed trademark rights in
certain small real estate markets in Washington and Idaho serviced by the
magazine. We filed for federal trademark protection of our name on October 21,
1996. A search has shown that HomeSeekers Magazines, Inc. has no federally
registered trademark or state trademark registration. We intend to vigorously
defend this action.
ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
None.
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PART II
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
Our common stock is traded on the OTC Bulletin Board under the symbol
"HMSK". The following table sets forth the high and low bid quotations for the
common stock for the periods indicated. These quotations, as reported by North
American Quotations, reflect prices between dealers, do not include retail
mark-ups, markdowns, commissions and may not necessarily represent actual
transactions.
Period High Low
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First Quarter ended 9/30/97 $6.31 $3.06
Second Quarter ended 12/31/97 $5.87 $1.50
Third Quarter ended 3/31/98 $2.88 $1.34
Fourth Quarter ended 6/30/98 $4.53 $2.00
First Quarter ended 9/30/98 $6.22 $2.40
Second Quarter Ended 12/31/98 $6.44 $1.94
Third Quarter ended 3/31/99 $6.72 $4.00
Fourth Quarter ended 6/30/99 $11.38 $4.50
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As of June 30, 1999, there were approximately 600 holders of record of
the 14,946,283 shares of Common Stock that were issued and outstanding. The
transfer agent for the shares is Atlas Stock Transfer Co., 5899 South State
Street, Salt Lake City, Utah 84107, telephone (801) 266-7151.
We have never paid cash dividends on our common stock. We presently
intend to retain future earnings, if any, to finance the expansion of our
business and do not anticipate that any cash dividends will be paid in the
foreseeable future. The future dividend policy will depend on our operating
results, capital requirements, expansion plans, financial condition and other
relevant factors.
Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities
On August 4, 1998 we purchased certain assets of Genstar Media
("Genstar"), an Internet web site sales and production company, in consideration
for the issuance of 50,000 shares of our common stock to the two former
shareholders of Genstar. These holders had access to or otherwise were provided
with information, including financial, concerning us, and the shares issued to
them contained a legend restricting transferability absent registration under
the Securities Act. Accordingly, this transaction was exempt from the
registration requirements pursuant to the exemption set forth in Section 4 (2)
of the Securities Act and the rules and regulations thereunder.
During the year ending June 30, 1999, employees exercised incentive
stock options to purchase 149,376 shares of common stock for $234,155 at prices
from $1.47 to $2.00 per share. Inasmuch as these employees had a pre-existing
relationship with us and access to relevant information concerning us, the
issuance of such securities was exempt from the registration requirements of the
Securities Act pursuant to the exemption set forth in Section 4(2) of the
Securities Act and the rules and regulations thereunder.
During September 1998, we issued 20,000 shares of common stock to
complete the August 1997 acquisition of FOCUS Publications. The recipients of
these shares had access to or otherwise were provided with information,
including financial, concerning our Company, and the shares issued to them
contained a legend restricting transferability absent registration under the
Securities Act. Accordingly, this transaction was exempt from the registration
requirements of the Securities Act by reason of the exemption set forth in
Section 4(2) of the Securities Act and the rules and regulations thereunder.
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During the year ending June 30, 1999 holders of 692,000 shares of our
Series A Preferred Stock converted 100% of their preferred stock into common
stock, and the cumulative dividends thereon, into a total of 1,492,432 shares of
common stock. These investors had access to relevant information concerning us,
had a pre-existing business relationship with our Company and the shares issued
to them contained a legend restricting transferability absent registration under
the Securities Act. Accordingly, this transaction was exempt from the
registration requirements of the Securities Act by reason of the exemption set
forth in Section 4(2) thereof and the rules and regulations thereunder.
During November 1998, we issued 6,337 shares as partial compensation to
an employee. This employee had access to relevant information concerning us and
had a pre-existing business relationship with us. In addition, the shares issued
to the employee contained a legend restricting transferability absent
registration under the Securities Act. Accordingly, this transaction was exempt
from the registration requirements of the Securities Act by reason of the
exemption set forth in Section 4(2) thereof and the rules and regulations
thereunder.
During January and February 1999 we sold 4,062,004 shares of common
stock (including 62,016 shares issued as partial payment of placement agent
commissions) for net proceeds of approximately $10.6 million to accredited
investors pursuant to Rule 506 of Regulation D. These shares were registered
with the SEC, along with other various unregistered shares, under a Form SB-2 on
March 5, 1999.
Additionally, during the fiscal year ended June 30, 1999, we issued an
additional 356,591 shares for net proceeds of $1,875,943. These investors were
accredited or otherwise had such experience in financial and business matters so
that they were able to evaluate the risks and merits of an investment in us, and
were provided access to relevant information concerning us. In addition, the
shares issued to these investors contained a legend restricting transferability
absent registration under the Securities Act. Accordingly, these transactions
were exempt from the registration requirements of the Securities Act by reason
of the exemption set forth in Section 4(2) thereof and the rules and regulations
thereunder.
During January 1999 we issued 45,000 common shares to two consultants
as partial compensation for services rendered. These two consultants had access
to relevant information concerning us and had a pre-existing business
relationship with us. In addition, the shares issued to these consultants
contained a legend restricting transferability absent registration under the
Securities Act. Accordingly, this transaction was exempt from the registration
requirements of the Securities Act by reason of the exemption from registration
set forth in Section 4(2) thereof and the rules and regulations thereunder.
During the year ending June 30, 1999 warrant holders exercised warrants
for 1,082,845 shares with exercise prices from $1.47 to $3.00 per share, which
produced $3,087,042 in net proceeds to us. These warrant holders were accredited
or otherwise had such experience in financial and business matters so that they
were able to evaluate the risks and merits of an investment in us, and were
provided access to relevant information concerning us. In addition, the shares
issued to these consultants contained a legend restricting transferability
absent registration under the Securities Act. Accordingly, these transactions
were exempt from the registration requirements of the Securities Act by reason
of the exemption set forth in Section 4(2) thereof and the rules and regulations
thereunder.
During the year ending June 30, 1999, convertible redeemable promissory
note holders converted $140,587 of debt and accrued interest into 70,123 common
shares. These note holders had access to or otherwise were provided with
information, including financial, concerning us, and the shares issued to them
contained a legend restricting transferability absent registration under the
Securities Act. Accordingly, this transaction was exempt from the registration
requirements of the Securities Act by reason of the exemption set forth in
Section 4(2) thereof and the rules and regulations thereunder.
During the year ending June 30, 1999, we issued warrants to purchase
1,154,708 shares of common at prices from $2.00 to $6.25 per share to various
vendors and investors. This included a warrant, issued in March 1999 to a vendor
for services rendered totaling $60,000, to purchase 18,100 shares at $4.00 per
share. These vendors and investors had access to or otherwise were provided with
information, including financial, concerning our Company, and the shares issued
to them contained a legend restricting transferability absent registration under
the Securities Act. Accordingly, this transaction was exempt from the
registration requirements of the Securities Act by reason of the exemption set
forth in Section 4(2) thereof and the rules and regulations thereunder.
During the year ending June 30, 1999, we granted options to purchase
1,266,250 shares of common at prices from $1.47 to $9.97 per share to employees
as incentive stock options. Our employees had access to relevant information
concerning us and had a pre-existing business relationship with us and the
shares issued to them contained a legend restricting transferability absent
registration under the Securities Act. Accordingly, these transactions were
exempt from the registration requirements of the Securities Act by reason of
Section 4(2) thereof and the rules and regulations thereunder.
9
<PAGE>
On May 28, 1999 we acquired all of the outstanding shares of Holloway
Publications, Inc., a closely held private company in consideration for the
issuance of 150,872 shares of our common stock. The two owners of this business
were accredited or otherwise had such experience in financial and business
matters so that they were able to evaluate the risks and merits of selling their
business to us in exchange for our securities, and they were provided access to
relevant information concerning us. In addition, the shares issued to these
owners contained a legend restricting transferability absent registration under
the Securities Act. Accordingly, these transactions were exempt from the
registration requirements of the Securities Act by reason of the exemption set
forth in Section 4(2) thereof and the rules and regulations thereunder.
ITEM 6. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS
OF OPERATIONS
Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements contained in this Section and elsewhere in this Form
10-KSB regarding matters that are not historical facts are forward-looking
statements (as such term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform
Act of 1995). Because such forward-looking statements include risks and
uncertainties, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or
implied by such forward-looking statements. All statements that address
operating performance, events or developments that management expects or
anticipates to incur in the future, including statements relating to sales and
earnings growth or statements expressing general optimism about future operating
results, are forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements are
based on management's current views and assumptions regarding future events and
operating performance. Many factors could cause actual results to differ
materially from estimates contained in management's forward-looking statements.
The differences may be caused by a variety of factors, including but not limited
to adverse economic conditions, competitive pressures, inadequate capital,
unexpected costs, lower revenues, net income and forecasts, the possibility of
fluctuation and volatility of our operating results and financial condition,
inability to carry out marketing and sales plans and loss of key executives,
among other things.
Results of Operations
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Revenue
1999 %CHANGE 1998 %CHANGE 1997
---- ------- ---- ------- ----
(DOLLAR AMOUNTS IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Revenue....... $3,419 105% $1,666 5% $1,590
</TABLE>
Revenues are composed of products and services sold by us including
prospect revenues, web site and web pages revenues, advertising, programming,
support and license fees, and publishing. Growth in revenues in 1999 reflects a
significant increase in three areas: web sites sold increased to $1,201,000
compared to $476,000 in the prior year, prospect revenues of $1,079,000 compared
to $509,000 and license and programming revenues that amounted to $690,000
compared to $284,000 in the prior year. Web site revenues increased due to a
expansion of the real estate agent customer base as well as a favorable shift in
the mix between higher revenue web sites and lower revenue web pages. Prospect
revenues were favorably impacted by the increased traffic on our Internet site.
License and programming revenues include revenues to related parties of $501,000
compared to $215,000 for the prior year.
Revenues increased 5% from $1,590,000 in 1997 to $1,666,000 in 1998.
Internet web site revenues increased by $282,000 from 1997 to 1998, from
$194,000 to $476,000. This was due to a ramp-up of selling web sites to real
estate agents during 1998. Custom programming, support and licensing revenues,
which include revenues from a related party, WebQuest International, Inc.
(WebQuest), decreased by $279,000, from $563,000 in 1997 to $284,000 in 1998.
This was due primarily to a $300,000 licensing fee charged to WebQuest in 1997
for license of certain technology developed by us.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Gross Profit
1999 %CHANGE 1998 %CHANGE 1997
---- ------- ---- ------- ----
(DOLLAR AMOUNTS IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Gross profit...... $2,852 115% $1,327 (3%) $1,366
Gross margin...... 84% 80% 86%
</TABLE>
Gross profit consists of revenues less the cost of revenues, which
consists of fees for data, and certain agent web site related maintenance costs.
Gross profit increased in 1999, reflecting our increased revenue volume. Our
gross margin increased in 1999 as a result of improvements in productivity and
the transfer of hosting fees from outsourcing to internal operations.
10
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Operating Expenses
1999 %CHANGE 1998 %CHANGE 1997
---- ------- ---- ------- ----
(DOLLAR AMOUNTS IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Operating expenses........ $8,009 101% $3,985 24% $3,221
Percentage of sales....... 234% 239% 203%
</TABLE>
Operating expenses increased from $3,985,000 in 1998 to $8,009,000 in
1999. This 101% increase in costs was due to several factors relating to
improvement in our infrastructure and support systems necessary to handle the
increased traffic on out Internet web site. Total employee compensation
increased from $2,245,000 in 1998 to $3,502,000 in 1999, with average employee
headcount increasing from 46 in 1998 to 78 in 1999. Employees were added
primarily in programming, technical support and sales during 1999. Facilities
costs increased to $264,000 from $29,000 in the prior year due primarily to the
opening of our new facility in Brea, California.
Operating expenses increased from $3,221,000 in 1997 to $3,985,000 in
1998. This 24% increase in costs was due to several factors, all relating to
improvement in the Company's infrastructure necessary to support more traffic on
the Company's Internet web site. Total employee compensation increased from
$1,595,000 in 1997 to $2,245,000 in 1998, with average employee headcount
increasing from 37 in 1997 to 46 in 1998.
The balance of the increase in operating expenses resulted primarily
from an increase in sales promotion expenses and from the cost of registering
the Company's common stock, under Section 12(g) of the Securities Exchange Act
of 1934.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Other Income (Expense)
1999 %CHANGE 1998 %CHANGE 1997
---- ------- ---- ------- ----
(DOLLAR AMOUNTS IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Other income (expense)..... $317 NA $(186) NA $(267)
Percentage of sales........ 9% (11%) (17%)
</TABLE>
Other income consists of investment income, interest expense and
gain/loss on asset sales. We decreased debt thereby decreasing interest expense
from $116,000 in 1998 to $31,000 in 1999. We raised $12 million of equity in the
third quarter of 1999 that resulted in investment income of $192,000 during
1999. During 1999, we had a gain on the sale of securities of $200,000.
Interest expense decreased 60% from $290,000 in 1997 to $116,000 in
1998. This was due primarily to the conversion of $1,916,000 of convertible debt
into common stock during 1998 .
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Net Loss
1999 %CHANGE 1998 %CHANGE 1997
---- ------- ---- ------- ----
(DOLLAR AMOUNTS IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net Loss.................... $(4,842) 73% $(2,796) 32% $(2,122)
Percentage of sales......... (142%) (168%) (133%)
</TABLE>
Net Loss. As a result of the foregoing, our net loss increased from
$2,796,000 for 1998 to $4,842,000 for 1999.
Our future results of operations will not materially improve until we
are able to realize the potential of the R2K and MLS2K product lines and/or we
are able to significantly increase the revenue streams associated with our web
site products. We have recently raised capital, which is believed to be
sufficient to operate through fiscal 2000. We plan to use this capital for
hiring of personnel, funding advertising and further developing the
infrastructure necessary to support significantly higher levels of sales and
customer support. In order to pursue strategic complementary opportunities we
may be required to raise additional capital. Our management has, to date,
focused on obtaining the rights to real estate listings nation-wide, which are
currently included on our Internet Web site. We have now acquired the right to
use approximately 800,000 real estate listings, on average, which we believe
amounts to roughly sixty percent of the total real estate listings in the United
States at any point in time. In addition, we have developed a suite of
internet-related products that allow the real estate agent to interact with
consumers via the Internet. We have only a limited operating history with our
existing business model. The future must be considered in view of the
uncertainties, risks, and expenses often encountered in companies in our stage
of development. Consequently, there is no assurance that we will ever achieve or
maintain profitability.
11
<PAGE>
Liquidity and Capital Resources
At June 30, 1999 our cash balance was $10.6 million compared to $.2
million in the prior year, primarily due to the completion of our $12 million
private offering and the exercise of warrants. We have experienced negative cash
flows from operations since inception. Operations have been funded through the
private sale of equity securities and from the sales of our products and
services. During the past year we have achieved a positive working capital
position of $9.1 million compared to a working capital deficit of $1.4 million.
Our accounts receivable increased from .1 million in 1998 to $1.7 million in
1999, the majority of this increase is due to amounts due from Vista. While our
working capital position and current ratio improved significantly during 1999
our operations have been, and will continue in the foreseeable future to be,
financed primarily from additional equity capital. There are no assurances that
we will be able to continue raising capital sufficient to fund our operations in
the future.
Net cash used in operating activities amounted to $4.3 million in 1999
compared to $2.9 million in 1998. This increase in cash used resulted primarily
from payroll and other operating expenses, as further described above.
Net cash used in investing activities was $.7 million in 1999 versus
net cash provided of $.4 million in 1998. Equipment purchases associated with
the expansion in Brea accounted for the majority of this differential.
Net cash provided by financing activities was $15.4 million in 1999
compared to $2.6 million in the prior year. We raised $12 million through the
sale of common stock to accredited investors pursuant to Rule 506 of Regulation
D. This sale netted us approximately $10.6 million after deducting commission of
approximately $1.2 million and other offering expenses. These shares were
registered with the SEC, along with other various unregistered shares, under a
Form SB-2 on March 5, 1999. Additional net cash was provided by financing
activities through the exercise of warrants during the fourth quarter.
We currently anticipate that the existing cash and cash generated from
operations will be adequate to fund our operating activities and capital
expenditures through fiscal 2000. However, we may need to raise additional funds
to support and increase our rate of growth, enhance our services and products,
increase our marketing presence, respond to competitive pressures, or enter into
alliances and acquisitions. If we are not successful in generating sufficient
cash flow from operations we may need to raise additional funds through private
or public offerings, strategic alliances or other business combinations. This
additional funding, if needed, may not be available on terms acceptable to us,
or at all. Should we be unable to raise sufficient capital there could be a
material adverse affect on our business. If additional funds were raised through
the issuance of equity securities, our current shareholders could suffer
dilution.
Risk Factors
Competition
We are engaged in a highly competitive segment of the real estate data
processing industry. We compete or may subsequently compete, directly or
indirectly, with a large number of companies that may provide various levels of
services or products comparable with those provided by us. Our present or
prospective competitors, including HomeStore com, Inc. and CyberHomes, have
Internet web sites, are, in some cases, better capitalized and more established
than are we, and may have greater access to the resources necessary to produce a
competitive advantage. Additionally, brokerage chains as well as individual real
estate agents, have developed their own web sites. Although we believe that our
software systems and services may be on the leading edge of technology and can
ultimately occupy an attractive market position, there can be no assurance that
we will continue to compete effectively in our market.
12
<PAGE>
Government Regulation
We are subject, both directly and indirectly, to various laws and
governmental regulations relating to our business. We believe we are currently
in compliance with such laws and that they will not have a material impact on
our operations. Moreover, there are currently few laws or regulations directly
applicable to access to or commerce on the Internet. However, due to the
increasing popularity and use of the Internet, it is possible that a number of
laws and regulations may be adopted with respect to the Internet. Such laws and
regulations may cover issues such as user privacy, pricing and characteristics
and quality of products and services. The enactment of any such laws or
regulations in the future may slow the growth of the Internet, which could in
turn decrease the demand for our services and increase our cost of doing
business or otherwise have an adverse effect on our business, results of
operations and financial condition.
Accumulated Deficit; Anticipated Future Losses
For the fiscal years ended June 30, 1999 and 1998, we experienced a net
loss of $4,842,000 and $2,796,000, respectively. We have an accumulated deficit
as of June 30, 1999 of $15,212,000. We anticipate continued losses for the
foreseeable future. Our operating results for future periods are subject to
numerous uncertainties. We anticipate significant expenses in the foreseeable
future, including product development expenses, sales and marketing costs,
general administrative expenses and acquisition costs. There can be no assurance
that we will achieve sufficient additional revenues to offset anticipated
operating and acquisition costs. We will continue to have high levels of
operating expenses and will be required to make significant expenditures in
connection with our continued product development activities and our sales and
marketing infrastructure development. As such, we may experience significant
operating losses that could continue until such time, if ever, that we are able
to generate sufficient additional revenues to support our operations. There can
be no assurance that our technology and products will be able to compete
successfully in the marketplace and/or generate significant revenue.
Need for Additional Capital
Our business is capital intensive, particularly with respect to product
development costs associated with the design and creation of software products,
and our plan to grow through acquisitions and strategic alliances. Accordingly,
we will require additional capital to support and expand our operations. To the
extent that revenues from operations are insufficient and additional funding is
required, public or private financing may not be available when needed or may
not be available on terms favorable or acceptable to us, if at all. Failure to
secure additional financing, if and when needed, may have a material adverse
affect on the our ability to implement our proposed business strategy.
Uncertainty of Product and Technology Development; Technological Factors
We have not completed development and testing of certain of our
proposed products and proposed enhancements to our products, some of which are
still in the planning stage or in relatively early stages of development. Our
success will depend in part upon the ability of our proposed products to meet
targeted performance and cost objectives, and will also depend upon their timely
introduction into the marketplace. We will be required to commit considerable
time, effort and resources to finalize development of our proposed products and
product enhancements. Although we anticipate that the development of our
products and technology will be successfully concluded, our product development
efforts are subject to all of the risks inherent in the development of new
products and technology (including unanticipated delays, expenses and
difficulties, as well as the possible insufficiency of funding to complete
development). There can be no assurance as to when, or whether, such product
development efforts will be successfully completed. In addition, there can be no
assurance that our products will satisfactorily perform the functions for which
they are designed, that they will meet applicable price or performance
objectives or that unanticipated technical or other problems will not occur
which would result in increased costs or material delays in their development.
There can be no assurance that, despite testing by us and by current and
potential end users, problems will not be found in new products after the
commencement of commercial shipments, resulting in loss of, or delay in, market
acceptance.
Challenges of Growth
We anticipate a period of rapid growth that is expected to place a
strain on our administrative, financial and operational resources. Our ability
to manage any staff and facilities growth effectively will require us to
continue to improve our operational, financial and management controls,
reporting systems and procedures, to install new management information and
control systems and to train, motivate and manage our employees. However, there
can be no assurance that we will install such management information and control
systems in an efficient and timely manner or that the new systems will be
adequate to support our future operations. If we are unable to hire, train and
retain qualified systems engineers and consultants to implement these services
or are unable to manage the post-sales process effectively, our ability to
attract repeat sales or provide references could be materially adversely
affected, thereby limiting our growth opportunities. If our management is unable
to manage growth effectively, such as if our sales and marketing efforts exceed
our capacity to install, maintain and service our products or if new employees
are unable to achieve adequate performance levels, our business, operating
results and financial condition could be materially adversely affected.
13
<PAGE>
Penny Stocks
The Securities and Exchange Commission has adopted regulations which
generally define a "penny stock" to be any equity security that has a market
price (as defined) of less than $5.00 per share, subject to certain exceptions.
Our common stock may be deemed to be a "penny stock" and thus may become subject
to rules that impose additional sales practice requirements on broker/dealers
who sell such securities to persons other than established customers and
accredited investors, unless the common stock is listed on the NASDAQ Small Cap
Market. Consequently, the "penny stock" rules may restrict the ability of
broker/dealers to sell our securities, and may adversely affect the ability of
holders of the our common stock to resell their shares in the secondary market.
Impact of the Year 2000
The Securities and Exchange Commission, in Staff Legal Bulletin No. 5
(CF/IM), has stated that public operating companies should consider whether they
will be affected by any material expenditures, problems or uncertainties with
the Year 2000 issue, which affects many existing computer systems that use only
two digits to identify a year in the date field. We believe that the matters
raised by Staff Legal Bulletin No. 5 are not applicable in any material way to
our own systems, and we intend to confirm that any computer systems that we may
purchase or lease in the future will have addressed the Year 2000 issue.
We are currently determining the extent to which we may be impacted by
third parties' failure to remedy their own year 2000 issues. We are having, and
will continue to have, formal communications with our significant customers,
payers, suppliers, and other third parties to determine the extent, if any, to
which our interface systems could be impacted by any third party year 2000
issues and related remedies. There can be no assurance that the systems of other
companies with which our systems interact will be timely converted and would not
have an adverse effect on our business.
IMPACT OF THE YEAR 2000 ON COMPUTER SYSTEMS STATE OF READINESS:
We recognize the need to ensure our operations will not be adversely
impacted by the inability of our systems to process data having dates on or
after January 1, 2000 (the "Year 2000" issue). Processing errors due to software
failure arising from calculations using the Year 2000 date are a recognized
risk. We are currently addressing the risk, with respect to the availability and
integrity of our financial systems and the reliability of our operating systems,
and are in the process of communicating with suppliers, customers, financial
institutions and others with whom we conduct business transactions to assess
whether they are Year 2000 compliant. At this time, we have not found any
material deficiencies in significant vendors' or customers' computer operations.
Our Realty 2000(R) product has been upgraded to be year 2000 compliant.
Additionally, it has been determined that the multiple listing services real
estate listings that we aggregate on our HomeSeekers.com Internet site should
not be materially affected by the Year 2000 dating problem.
COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH THE YEAR 2000 ISSUE:
Though a thorough budget has not been prepared, we believe that the
costs for evaluating and addressing Year 2000 issues relating to our internal
and commercial software and hardware to be less than $40,000. This statement is
forward-looking and subject to risks and uncertainties. No assurances can be
given that, if an effective readiness plan can be designed and implemented that
costs can be held to this level. Costs to address Year 2000 issues with third
parties have not been estimated, though we expect that a substantial portion of
such costs would be borne by the respective third parties.
RISKS OF YEAR 2000 ISSUES:
We are not aware of any specific issues which would have a material
effect on its operations, liquidity or financial condition, but can make
projections of reasonably likely, "worst case" scenarios which could have such
an effect. An interruption of Internet or telecommunications services for an
extended period of time would prevent us from providing service to a substantial
portion of our customers, resulting in a material loss of revenue. A protracted
"crash" of our internal networking and operating software would also result in a
material loss of revenue as well as an interruption of research and development
activities. This scenario could also result in financial systems not operating
properly, which could hinder its ability to collect revenue and comply with
financial reporting requirements. However, at this time, we do not anticipate
that the financial impact of the Year 2000 issues will have a material adverse
effect on our business, financial condition, or results of operations.
CONTINGENCY PLANS:
At the present time we do not have a formal contingency plan in the
event it does not complete all phases of its Year 2000 efforts. We are currently
evaluating the status of our progress to determine if such a plan is necessary.
ITEM 7. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The financial statements required by this report are appended hereto
commencing on page F-1.
ITEM 8. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS.
None
14
<PAGE>
PART III
ITEM 9. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS, PROMOTERS AND CONTROL PERSONS.
The following table sets forth the names, positions with us and ages of
our executive officers and directors. Directors are elected at our annual
meeting of stockholders. One half of the total number of directors are elected
at each annual meeting, and, therefore, each director serves for two years or
until their successors are elected. Officers are elected by the Board and their
terms of office are, except to the extent governed by employment contract, at
the discretion of the Board. Our audit committee consists of Douglas Swanson,
Brad Rotter, and David Holmes.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Name Age Position Director Since Term Expires
---- --- -------- -------------- ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Gregory L. Costley 46 Chairman of the Board of Directors, 1999 2001
Chief Executive Officer,
Secretary/Treasurer
John Giaimo 45 President, 1996 1999
Chief Operating Officer,
Director
Douglas Swanson 57 Vice Chairman, 1996 1999
Executive Vice President
Greg Johnson 47 Chief Technology Officer, 1988 1999
Director
Scott Berry 41 Chief Financial Officer N/A
Larry Ross 48 Vice President, Marketing N/A
Brad Rotter 43 Director 1999 2001
David Holmes 43 Director 1999 2001
</TABLE>
Gregory L. Costley joined us as Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive
Officer and Secretary/Treasurer on August 23, 1999. Mr. Costley came to us from
Dole Food Company, where he held a series of positions of increasing
responsibilities over a period of eleven years, from 1988 until August 20, 1999.
Most recently he was President of Dole's North American Fruit Operations group
from September 1996 to August 22, 1999. His responsibilities included total
bottom line accountability for all functions (including marketing, sales and
finance) for the six Dole strategic business units that comprised the North
American Fruit group. These units were located throughout North America.
Additional responsibility included export shipments to Asia, Europe and South
and Central America. Revenues handled by his group exceeded $500 million
annually. Mr. Costley received his MBA from Harvard University's Graduate School
of Business Administration in 1982. Mr. Costley is one of our long time
investors and is Mr. Swanson's brother-in-law.
Greg Johnson, our founder and Chief Technology Officer, served as
Chairman of the Board from August 1996, to August 1999 and previously served as
our Chief Executive Officer from September 1996 to August 22, 1999. He has been
a Director since 1988, and served as our President from 1988 through August
1996. He has been involved in all phases of our management. Mr. Johnson is a
licensed real estate broker/agent in Nevada and has extensive experience in the
marketing and sales of real estate.
John Giaimo has served as President, Chief Operating Officer ("COO")
and a Director since August 1996. He was the President of Visual Listings, Inc.
since July 1990 and the Chief Executive Officer of VLI from July 1990 to August
1996. Mr. Giaimo was a party to a chapter seven personal bankruptcy (that was
finalized in September 1996) that involved three computer stores of which he was
the sole proprietor.
Douglas Swanson has served as Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors
and Executive Vice President since October 31, 1995. His current
responsibilities include investor relations and mergers and acquisitions.
Between 1990 and October 1995, Mr. Swanson served as Chairman and was founder of
Remington-Fox, Inc., a company engaged in the business of medical transcribing.
Remington-Fox filed for bankruptcy protection under Chapter eleven in June 1996
and is no longer in operation. Because of personal guarantees associated with
Remington-Fox, Mr. Swanson filed for personal bankruptcy protection under
Chapter eleven in June 1996. A plan has been confirmed to repay in full all
qualified creditors.
15
<PAGE>
Scott Berry has served as our Chief Financial Officer since October
1997 and is responsible for accounting, financial planning, SEC reporting and
human resources. Between 1994 and October 1997, Mr. Berry served as Controller
of several businesses including Dennis Banks Construction Company from February
1997 to October 1997, Advanced Plastic Molding, Inc. from April 1996 to January
1997, and Siller Brothers, Inc. from December 1994 to February 1996. From July
1993 to August 1994, Mr. Berry served as Vice President of Finance for Precision
Resource Corporation, a software developer and computer hardware reseller. From
September 1988 through June 1993, Mr. Berry was Chief Financial Officer of
Lansmont Corporation, a developer and manufacturer of computer-based products
and package test equipment. Mr. Berry was employed as a CPA with Ernst & Whinney
in the early 1980's and received his MBA from Santa Clara University in 1988.
Larry Ross has served as Vice President of Marketing since September
1997. From May 1989 to May 1996, Mr. Ross served as the Regional Director/Chief
Operating Officer for Century 21 Region V, which comprised the eastern half of
Los Angeles County, Riverside County and San Bernardino County, California, one
of the top five regions of 45 nationwide that are consistently ranked first in
"per office" productivity. He was responsible for 185 offices with 7,000 real
estate agents and managed a corporate staff of 35. Between 1990 and 1992, he
served as Regional Director Representative to the National Advertising Fund
committee that helped set direction for the Century 21 advertising fund of $40
million. Additionally, from 1993 to 1994, he was one of three Regional Directors
appointed to serve on the President's National Top Brokers Task Force that
contributed input to the Chief Executive Officer of Century 21.
Brad Rotter, is Chairman of Point West Capital Corporation
(NASDAQ:PWCC), a specialty finance company, and Chairman of the Echelon Group, a
holding company of money management companies. Mr. Rotter has been employed with
Point West Capital Corporation since 1992. He has 22 years of experience in the
securities industry, including positions with Merrill Lynch. E.F. Hutton, and
A.G. Becker.
David Holmes, has been Vice President and Portfolio Manager of Whittier
Trust Company of Nevada Inc., since 1995, where he is responsible for managing
more than $800 million in individual trust assets. Between 1990 and 1994, Holmes
was a portfolio manager for Morgan Stanley & Co. He spent the previous 11 years
in financial accounting management including five years as vice president of
finance for Realty Income Corp.
Directors are entitled to reimbursement for reasonable travel and other
out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with attendance at Board of
Directors meetings, but receive no set fees or benefits as directors, although a
director may receive certain warrants upon acceptance of the position as a
director. Mr. Rotter and Mr. Holmes will each recieve a warrant to purchase
150,000 shares at $4.00 per share at the end of each year of service as a
director.
Late Filings of Form 3's
Mr. Rotter and Mr. Holmes have not filed their Form 3's with the
Securities and Exchange Commission. They intend to file these forms as soon as
possible.
16
<PAGE>
ITEM 10. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
Cash Compensation
The following table shows, for the three-year period ended June 30,
1999, the cash and other compensation paid to its Chief Executive Officer and to
each of the executive officers who had annual compensation in excess of
$100,000.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Summary Compensation Table
Fiscal Other Annual LTIP All Other
Name and Principal Position Year Salary (1) Bonus Compensation Options/ (#) Payouts Compensation
- --------------------------- ---- ---------- ----- ------------ ------------ ------- ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Greg Johnson (2) 1999 $177,047 - - 204,000 - -
CEO, Treasurer & Secretary 1998 $141,546 - - - - -
1997 $ 90,769 - - 200,000 - -
John Giaimo 1999 $174,047 - - 204,000 -
President and COO 1998 $141,546 - - - - -
1997 $ 90,769 $50,000 - 200,000 - -
Doug Swanson 1999 $177,047 - - 404,000 - -
Executive Vice President 1998 $ 91,503 - - 250,000 - -
1997 $ 91,503 - - 200,000 - -
</TABLE>
(1) This amount includes monthly automobile allowance for each officer of
$600.
(2) Mr. Johnson was Chairman of the Board of Directors and Chief
Executive Officer of the Company until August 23, 1999. At that time,
Mr. Johnson became Chief Technology Officer and remains a Director.
Employment Agreements
Greg Johnson, Chairman and CEO and a director. In March, 1999, we
entered into a five-year employment agreement with Mr. Johnson whereby he
continued to serve as our CEO. Mr. Johnson is entitled to receive 1) an annual
bonus equal to 4% of our pre-tax earnings and 2) options to purchase our common
stock equal to 4% of our pre-tax earnings, at an exercise price equal to the bid
price of our common stock on the date of such grant. Mr. Johnson was Chairman of
the Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer of the Company until August
23, 1999. At that time, Mr. Johnson became Chief Technology Officer and remains
a Director. In the event Mr. Johnson ceases to be employed by us following a
change in control (as defined in the Employment Agreement), Mr. Johnson is
entitled to receive a lump sum payment equal to five times the sum of his
highest annual salary while employed by us, plus his largest annual bonus award
during such peiord. We are also required to pay any tax liability that may be
imposed on him under Section 4999 of the Internal Revenue Code with respect to a
change in control decribed in the preceding sentence. Mr. Johnson has agreed to
not sell any shares underlying vested stock options through April 2000, without
the approval of our Private Placement Agents.
Douglas Swanson, Vice Chairman of the Board and Executive Vice
President. In March,, 1999 we entered into a five year employment agreement with
Mr. Swanson whereby he continued to serve as our Vice Chairman & Executive Vice
President. Mr. Swanson is entitled to receive 1) an annual bonus equal to 4% of
the pre-tax earnings of the Company and 2) options to purchase common stock
equal to 4% of the pre-tax earnings, at an exercise price equal to the bid price
of our common stock on the date of such grant. In the event Mr. Swanson ceases
to be employed by us following a change in control (as defined in the Employment
Agreement), Mr. Swanson is entitled to receive a lump sum payment equal to five
times the sum of his highest annual salary while employed by us, plus his
largest annual bonus award during such peiord. We are also required to pay any
tax liability that may be imposed on him under Section 4999 of the Internal
Revenue Code with respect to a change in control decribed in the preceding
sentence. Mr. Swanson has agreed to not sell any shares underlying vested stock
options through April 2000, without the approval of our Private Placement
Agents.
John Giaimo, President and a director. In March, 1999, we entered into
a five-year employment agreement with Mr. Giaimo whereby he was appointed
President. Mr. Giaimo is entitled to receive 1) an annual bonus equal to 4% of
the pre-tax earnings and 2) options to purchase common stock equal to 4% of the
pre-tax earnings, at an exercise price equal to the bid price of our common
stock on the date of such grant. In the event Mr. Giaimo ceases to be employed
by us following a change in control (as defined in the Employment Agreement),
Mr. Giaimo is entitled to receive a lump sum payment equal to five times the sum
of his highest annual salary while employed by us, plus his largest annual bonus
award during such peiord. We are also required to pay any tax liability that may
be imposed on him under Section 4999 of the Internal Revenue Code with respect
to a change in control decribed in the preceding sentence. Mr. Giaimo has agreed
to not sell any shares underlying vested stock options through April 2000,
without the approval of our Private Placement Agents.
Subsequent to Year End
Gregory L. Costley, Chairman, Chief Executive Officer,
Secretary/Treasurer. Mr. Costley assumed his duties on August 23, 1999. In
August 1999 we entered into a three-year employment agreement with Mr. Costley.
Mr. Costley is entitled to receive 1) an annual salary of $200,000 2) a signing
bonus of $40,000 together with a relocation allowance of $45,000 3) 300,000 in
stock options with 100,000 vesting immediately and 100,000 vesting on the
anniversary date of year one and year two, which have an exercise price of
$7.94, and 4) an option to purchase an additional 100,000 shares for each $10
increase in the per share value (which level must be maintained for 90 days) of
our common stock.
17
<PAGE>
Option Grants in Last Fiscal Year
The following table sets forth information with respect to the grant of
options to purchase shares of common stock during the fiscal year ended June 30,
1999 to each person listed above in the executive officer Summary Compensation
Table.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Number of Securities % of total Options
Underlying Options Granted to Employees Exercise or Base
Name Granted (#) in Fiscal year Price ($ / Shares) Expiration Date
- ---- ----------- -------------- ------------------ ---------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Douglas Swanson 100,000 8% $5.31/100,000 May 2004
Greg Johnson 100,000 8% $5.31/100,000 May 2004
John Giaimo 100,000 8% $5.31/100,000 May 2004
Doug Swanson 300,000 24% $2.38/300,000 Sept. 2003
Greg Johnson 100,000 8% $2.38/100,000 Sept. 2003
John Giaimo 100,000 8% $2.38/100,000 Sept. 2003
Doug Swanson 4,000 .3% $ 8.81/4,000 Varies
Greg Johnson 4,000 .3% $ 8.81/4,000 Varies
John Giaimo 4,000 .3% $ 8.81/4,000 Varies
</TABLE>
Incentive and Non-Qualified Stock Option Plan
On October 9, 1996, the Board of Directors ratified a stock option plan
called the 1996 Stock Option Plan (the Plan) and on December 21, 1996, the
stockholders approved the Plan. On December 18, 1997, at our annual stockholders
meeting, a majority of the stockholders and members of the Board of Directors
voted to amend the Plan to increase the number of options to 5,500,000. On May
4, 1999 we amended and restated our 1996 Stock Option Plan to allow employees 90
days after employment termination to exercise all vested options.
We believe the Plan will work to increase the proprietary interest of
our employees, and to align more closely their interests with the interests of
our stockholders. The Plan should also maintain our ability to attract and
retain the services of experienced and highly qualified employees.
Under the Plan, we have reserved an aggregate of 5,500,000 shares of
common stock for issuance pursuant to options granted under the Plan (Plan
Options). Our Board of Directors administers the Plan including, without
limitation, the selection of the persons who will be granted Plan Options under
the Plan, the type of Plan Options to be granted, the number of shares subject
to each Plan Option and the Plan Option price.
The Plan authorizes the issuance of incentive stock options (ISOs) as
defined in Section 422A of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, non-qualified
stock options (NQSOs) and together with ISOs, options. In addition, the Plan
also allows for the inclusion of a reload option provision (Reload Option),
which permits an eligible person to pay the exercise price of the Plan Option
with shares of common stock owned by the eligible person and receive a new Plan
Option to purchase shares of common stock equal in number to the tendered
shares.
Any ISO granted under the Plan must provide for an exercise price of
100% of the fair market value of the underlying shares on the date of such
grant, but the exercise price of any ISO granted to an eligible person owning
more than 10% of our common stock must be at least 110% of such fair market
value as determined on the date of the grant. The aggregate fair market value of
the shares covered by the ISOs granted under the Plan that become exercisable by
a Plan participant for the first time in any calendar year is subject to a
$100,000 limitation. The exercise price of each NQSO is determined by the Board
of Directors or a committee thereof, in its discretion, provided that the
exercise price of an NQSO is not less than 75% of the fair market value of the
common stock on the date of the grant. The Board of Directors (or committee
thereof), shall determine the term of the Options; provided, however, that in no
event may an Option be exercisable more than 10 years after the date of its
grant and, in the case of an ISO granted to an eligible employee owning more
than 10% our common stock, no more than five years after the date of the grant.
Any option which is granted shall be vested and exercisable at such time as
determined by the Board of Directors or a committee thereof.
The per share purchase price of shares subject to Plan Options granted
under the Plan may be adjusted in the event of certain changes in our
capitalization, but any such adjustment shall not change the total purchase
price payable upon the exercise in full of Plan Options granted under the Plan.
18
<PAGE>
As of June 30, 1999, there were options outstanding to purchase an
aggregate of 4,082,874 shares granted pursuant to the Plan.
Option Exercises and Holdings
The following table sets forth information with respect to the exercise
of options to purchase shares of Common Stock during the fiscal year ended June
30, 1999 to each person named in the Summary Compensation Table and the
unexercised options held as of the end of 1999.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
AGGREGATED OPTION/SAR EXERCISES IN LAST FISCAL YEAR
AND FISCAL YEAR-END OPTION/SAR VALUES
- ------------------------------ -------------------- ------------------ ----------------- --------------------
Securities Value of
Underlying Unexercised
Unexercised in-the-Money
Number of Shares Options/SARS at Options/SARS at
Acquired on Value FY-End (#) FY-End ($)
Exercise Realized Exercisable/ Exercisable/ Exercisable/
(#) ($) Unexercisable Unexercisable (1)
- ------------------------------ -------------------- ------------------ ----------------- --------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Greg Johnson (1) 11,988 $17,622 1,842,850 / 0 $3,530,267 / $0
CEO, Treasurer and
Secretary
- ------------------------------ -------------------- ------------------ ----------------- --------------------
John Giaimo 7,918 $11,639 951,933 / 0 $2,647,100 / $0
President and COO
- ------------------------------ -------------------- ------------------ ----------------- --------------------
Doug Swanson 91,970 $144,016 2,572,304 / 0 $5,748,377 / $0
Executive Vice
President
- ------------------------------ -------------------- ------------------ ----------------- --------------------
</TABLE>
(1) Mr. Johnson was Chairman of the Board of Directors and Chief Executive
Officer of the Company until August 23, 1999. At that time, Mr. Johnson became
Chief Technology Officer and remains a Director.
In accordance with the Securities and Exchange Commission's rules, values are
calculated by subtracting the exercise price from the fair market value of the
underlying common stock. For purpose of this table, fair market value is deemed
to be $4.75, the closing price reported on June 30, 1999.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
LONG-TERM INCENTIVE PLANS AWARDS IN LAST FISCAL YEAR
- ------------------------- --------------------- ------------------ ------------------------------------------
Estimated Future Payouts Under
Performance or Non-Stock Price- Based Plans
Number of Shares, other Period -----------------------------------------
Units or other Until Maturation
Name Rights (#) or Payout Threshold Target Maximum
($ or #) ($ or #) ($ or #)
- ------------------------- --------------------- ------------------ --------------------- --------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Greg Johnson (1) _ _ _
CEO,Treasurer _ _
and Secretary
- ------------------------- --------------------- ------------------ --------------------- --------------------
John Giaimo _ _ _
President and COO _ _
- ------------------------- --------------------- ------------------ --------------------- --------------------
Doug Swanson _ _ _
Executive Vice President _ _
- ------------------------- --------------------- ------------------ --------------------- --------------------
</TABLE>
(1) Mr. Johnson was Chairman of the Board of Directors and Chief Executive
Officer of the Company until August 23, 1999. At that time, Mr. Johnson became
Chief Technology Officer and remains a Director.
19
<PAGE>
ITEM 11. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
The following table sets forth certain information regarding our common
stock, par value $.001 beneficially owned as of July 31, 1999 for 1) each
stockholder known by us to be the beneficial owner of five (5%) percent or more
of our outstanding common stock, 2) each of the our directors, 3) each named
executive officer (as defined in Item 402(a)(2) of Regulation S-B), and 4) all
executive officers and directors as a group. At August 31, 1999 there were
15,205,778 shares of common stock outstanding. Except as specifically set forth
in the notes below, the table does not give affect to (a) the exercise of
warrants to purchase 1,663,250 shares of common stock, (b) the exercise of
options to purchase an aggregate of 4,052,874 shares of common stock and (c)
1,136,650 shares of common stock reserved for issuance pursuant to our Stock
Option Plan.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Name and Address or Amount and Nature of Percentage
Beneficial Owner(1) Beneficial Ownership (2) of Class
------------------- ------------------------ --------
<S> <C> <C>
Scott Berry (9) 107,750 .7%
Gregory L. Costley (8) 108,443 .7%
John Giaimo (3) 796,707 5.0%
David Holmes (4) - -
Greg Johnson (5) 1,335,907 8.3%
Larry Ross (9) 15,250 .1%
Brad Rotter (6) 643,000 4.2%
Doug Swanson (7) 1,319,835 8.0%
All directors and officers
as a group (8 people) 4,326,892 23.4%
</TABLE>
- -----------------------
(1) Unless otherwise indicated, the address of each of the listed beneficial
owners identified is 2241 Park Place, Suite E, Minden Nevada 89423.
Unless otherwise noted, we believe that all persons named in the table
have sole voting and investment power with respect to all the shares
beneficially owned by them.
(2) A person is deemed to be the beneficial owner of securities that can be
acquired by such person within 60 days upon the exercise of warrants or
options. Each beneficial owner's percentage ownership is determined by
assuming that warrants or options that are held by such person (but not
those held by any other person), and that are exercisable within 60
days, have been exercised.
(3) Mr. John Giaimo is President, Chief Operating Officer and a Director of
the Company. Includes options to purchase 796,707 shares through May 18,
2004 at exercise prices ranging from $1.47 per share to $8.81 per share.
Includes 61,492 shares owned by Melinda Giaimo, the wife of Mr. Giaimo
and an employee.
(4) Mr. Holmes was elected Director of the Company on March 15, 1999. Mr.
Holmes' address is c/o: Whittier Trust Company of Nevada, 100 W. Liberty
Street, Suite 740 Reno, NV 89501.
(5) Mr. Johnson was Chairman of the Board of Directors and Chief Executive
Officer of the Company until August 23, 1999. At that time, Mr. Johnson
became Chief Technology Officer and remains a Director. Includes options
to purchase 914,345 shares at exercise prices ranging from $1.47 per
share to $8.81 per share through May 18, 2004.
(6) Mr. Rotter was elected Director of the Company on March 15, 1999. Mr.
Rotter's address is c/o: Point West Capital Corporation 1700 Montgomery
St. Suite 250, San Francisco, CA 94111
(7) Mr. Swanson is Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors and Executive
Vice President of the Company. Includes options to purchase 1,319,835
shares at exercise prices ranging from $1.47 per share to $8.81 per
share through May 18, 2004.
(8) Mr. Costley is Chairman of the Board of Directors and Chief Executive
Officer of the Company as of August 23, 1999. Includes options to
purchase 100,000 shares at an exercise price of $7.94 through August 23,
2002.
(9) Consists of all options ranging in exercise price from $1.47 per share
to $8.81 per share through August 5, 2002.
20
<PAGE>
ITEM 12. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
Related Party Transactions
As of June 30, 1999, we had $400,000 of common stock with a valuation
allowance of zero from WebQuest International, Inc., a company related by common
shareholders. During the year ended June 30, 1999, we sold 400,000 shares of the
stock to an unaffiliated party for $600,000. Since the revenues previously
earned had been deferred due to uncertainty concerning collectibility, the sale
of the stock enabled us to recognize $400,000 of the revenue that had been
deferred in the prior year and a gain on sale of $200,000. We also acquired an
additional $100,000 of Webquest stock as consideration for selling certain
technology to WebQuest. Prior to this agreement, we had licensed this technology
to WebQuest. The revenue associated with the technology sale has been recorded
as deferred revenue until collectibility is assured.
We had outstanding at June 30, 1999 a $122,000 trade receivable from
Webquest. This receivable resulted from programming services performed for
WebQuest. We also had a $36,000 receivable, as of June 30, 1999 from
RealtySeekers, LLC, a LLC 50% owned by us.
During the fiscal years ended June 30, 1999 and 1998, the Company
received revenues from WebQuest in the amounts of $501,000 and $215,000,
respectively.
On March 14, 1999 the Company loaned WebQuest $50,000 at 12% interest
per annum. The note was due on June 15, 1999, and the note has been extended to
December 15, 1999. The note is reflected in our notes receivable from related
parties.
In May, 1999 we loaned John Giaimo, our President, $50,000 at 12%
interest per annum. The note is due July, 2000. The note is secured by 11,000
shares of Mr. Giaimo's HomeSeekers.com, Inc. common stock. The note is reflected
in our notes receivable from related parties.
As part of the purchase of the assets of Genstar Media it was agreed that
we would loan an employee Terry Pullan $50,000 at 5% interest per annum. This
loan was secured by Mr. Pullan's shares of HomeSeekers.com, Inc. common stock.
As of June 30, 1999 Mr. Pullan had repaid $25,000 of the loan. The $25,000
balance was reflected in our notes receivable from related parties as of June
30, 1999. The remaining $25,000 plus accrued interest was repaid subsequent to
year-end.
Greg Johnson, our Chief Executive Officer at the time, loaned us
$100,000 during December 1998 at 12% interest per annum. The loan and accrued
interest were repaid to Mr. Johnson during January 1999.
William Tomerlin, formerly an owner of more than 5% of our common stock,
loaned us $40,000 during September 1998, $195,000 during December 1998, and
$150,000 during January 1999 all at 12% interest per annum. The entire $385,000
including accrued interest was repaid to Mr. Tomerlin during January 1999.
21
<PAGE>
ITEM 13. EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K.
A) Index to Exhibits
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Exhibits Description of Documents
- -------- ------------------------
<S> <C>
3.1(a) Articles of Incorporation of Aurora Energy, Inc. dated January 13, 1983 (1).
3.1(b) Amendment to Articles of Incorporation of Aurora Energy, Inc. dated March 23,
1983 to change name to Aurora Tech, Inc (1)
3.1(c) Amendment to Articles of Incorporation of Aurora Tech, Inc. dated June 25, 1984 re: governance (1)
3.1(d) Amendment to Articles of Incorporation of Aurora Tech, Inc. dated May 12, 1988
changing the name to XRF Corporation (1)
3.1(e) Articles of Incorporation of NDS Software, Inc. dated September 29, 1994 (1)
3.1(f) Amendment to the Articles of Incorporation of NDS Software, Inc. dated November 15, 1995 (1)
3.1(g) Articles of Incorporation of Nevada Data Systems, Inc. dated October 28, 1987 (1)
3.1(h) Amendment to Articles of Incorporation of Nevada Data Systems, Inc. dated February 27, 1989 changing
name to NDS Software (1)
3.1(i) Amendment to Articles of Incorporation of NDS Software dated May 3, 1990 changing authorized stock (1)
3.1(j) Amendment to Articles of Incorporation of NDS Software dated December 31, 1990 changing authorized stock (1)
3.1(k) Amendment to Articles of Incorporation of NDS Software dated September 15, 1993 changing authorized stock (1)
3.1(l) Amendment to Articles of Incorporation of NDS Software dated June 20, 1994 changing authorized stock (1)
3.1(m) Amendment to Articles of Incorporation of XRF Corporation dated July 26, 1994 changing name (1)
3.1(n) Amendment to Articles of Incorporation of NDS Software dated July 15, 1997 changing authorized stock (1)
3.1(o) Amendment to Articles of Incorporation of NDS Software dated July 1, 1998 changing name (1)
3.2 Bylaws of NDS Software (1)
3.2(a) Amended and Restated Bylaws of Homeseekers.com, Inc. (3)
4.1 Certificate of Designation for Class A, Series A Preferred Stock (1)
4.2 Amendment to Certificate of Designation for Class A Series A Preferred Stock (1)
4.3 Certificate of Designation for Class B Convertible Preferred Stock (1)
4.4 Certificate of Designation for Class C Convertible Cumulative Preferred Stock (1)
6.1 Amended and Restated 1996 Stock Option Plan (3)
6.2 Articles, Plan and Agreement of Merger between XRF Corporation and NDS Software dated June 13, 1994 (1)
6.3 Agreement and Plan of Reorganization between NDS Software and Visual Listings, Inc. dated May 8, 1996 (1)
6.4 Agreement and Plan of Reorganization between the Company and Focus Publications, Inc. dated August 11, 1997
including Articles of Exchange filed December 31, 1997 (1)
6.5 Articles, Plan and Agreement of Merger between NDS Software, Inc., a Utah Corporation and NDS Software, Inc.,
a Nevada Corporation, dated September 26, 1994 (1)
6.6 Employment Agreement between us and John Giaimo dated March 9, 1999 (3)
6.7 Employment Agreement between us and Greg Johnson dated March 9, 1999 (3)
6.8 Employment Agreement between us and Doug Swanson dated March 9, 1999 (3)
6.9 Form of MLS Agreement (1)
6.10 Plan and Agreement of Reorganization between us and Holloway Publications, Inc. dated May 28, 1999 (2)
6.11 Employment Agreement between us and Greg Costley dated August 23, 1999 (3)
21 Subsidiaries of Registrant (3)
27 Financial Data Schedule (3)
</TABLE>
- -------------------------
(1) Incorporated by reference to Exhibits with corresponding numbers from
our Form 10-SB Registration Statement, as amended, as filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission.
(2) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1 from our Form 8-K, as filed with
the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 10, 1999.
(3) Filed herewith.
B) Reports on Form 8-K.
On June 10, 1999, a Report on Form 8-K was filed to disclose the
Registrant's acquisition of all of the issued and outstanding shares of
Holloway Publications, Inc. on May 28, 1999.
22
<PAGE>
SIGNATURES
In accordance with Section 13 or 15 (d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934,
the Registrant caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned,
thereunto duly authorized.
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INCORPORATED
(Registrant)
Date: September 9, 1999 By: /s/Scott Berry
------------------
Scott Berry
Chief Financial Officer
In accordance with the Exchange Act, this report has been signed below by the
following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the
date indicated.
Date: September 9, 1999
By: /s/Gregory L. Costley By: /s/Douglas Swanson
- ------------------------- ----------------------
Gregory L. Costley Douglas Swanson
Chairman of the Board Executive Vice President and Director
Chief Executive Officer
Secretary/Treasurer
By: /s/Greg Johnson By: /s/John Giaimo
- ------------------- ------------------
Greg Johnson John Giaimo
Chief Technology Officer President, Chief Operating Officer
and Director and Director
23
<PAGE>
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC.
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 1999 AND 1998
<PAGE>
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Report of Independent Certified Public Accountants F - 1
Consolidated Balance Sheets at June 30, 1999 and 1998 F-2-3
Consolidated Statements of Operations for the Years Ended
June 30, 1999 and 1998 F-4-5
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity (Deficit) for the
Years Ended June 30, 1999 and 1998 F-6-7
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended
June 30, 1999 and 1998 F-8-9
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements F-10-40
<PAGE>
Albright, Persing & Associates, Ltd.
CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
1025 Ridgeview Dr., Suite 300
Reno, Nevada 89509
Report of Independent Certified Public Accountants
To the Board of Directors and Stockholders
HomeSeekers.com, Inc.
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of
HomeSeekers.com, Inc. and subsidiaries as of June 30, 1999 and 1998, and the
related consolidated statements of operations, stockholders' equity (deficit),
and cash flows for the years then ended. These financial statements are the
responsibility of HomeSeekers.com, Inc.'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 opinions.
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present
fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of
HomeSeekers.com, Inc. and subsidiaries at June 30, 1999 and 1998, and the
consolidated results of their operations and their cash flows for the years then
ended, in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.
/s/ Albright Persing & Associates LTD
July 22, 1999, except for Note 3, as to
which the date is August 4, 1999
F-1
<PAGE>
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
JUNE 30, 1999 AND 1998
(Amounts in Thousands)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1999 1998
----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C>
ASSETS
Current Assets
Cash and cash equivalents $ 10,617 $ 198
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for
uncollectible accounts of $38 in 1999 and
$4 in 1998 1,697 55
Accounts receivable, related parties 158 193
Notes receivable, related parties 125 -
Inventories - 17
Prepaid expenses 309 13
---------- ----------
Total Current Assets 12,906 476
Investments, related party stock, net of valuation
allowance of $-0- in 1999 and $700 in 1998 400 -
Investments in LLCs - 451
Property and equipment, net 1,170 491
Goodwill and other intangible assets, net of
accumulated amortization of $602 in 1999 and
$318 in 1998 2,377 361
Other assets 36 119
----------- ----------
Total Assets $ 16,889 $ 1,898
=========== ==========
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS DEFICIT
Current Liabilities
Accounts payable $ 630 $ 324
Accrued liabilities 454 293
Current portion of capital lease obligations 26 -
Notes payable - 30
Notes payable - related parties 13 31
Deferred revenue 2,693 1,148
----------- ----------
Total Current Liabilities 3,816 1,826
----------- ----------
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements.
F-2
<PAGE>
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
JUNE 30, 1999 AND 1998
(Amounts in Thousands, Except Share and Per Share Data)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1999 1998
----------- -----------
<S> <C> <C>
Long-Term Liabilities
Convertible debt - 140
Capital lease obligations 50 -
Deferred revenue 333 -
------------ -----------
Total Long-Term Liabilities 383 140
------------ -----------
Stockholders' Equity (Deficit)
Series A convertible preferred stock, $0.001
par value, 5,000,000 shares authorized;
-0- shares and 692,000 issued and outstanding
at June 30, 1999 and 1998, respectively - 1
Series B convertible preferred stock, $10.00 par
value, 200,000 shares authorized; -0- shares
issued and outstanding at June 30, 1999 and
1998, respectively - -
Series C convertible preferred stock, $10.00 par
value, 400,000 shares authorized; -0- shares
issued and outstanding at June 30, 1999
and 1998, respectively - -
Common stock; $.001 par value, 50,000,000 shares
authorized; 14,946,283 shares and 7,460,703
shares issued and outstanding at June 30, 1999
and 1998, respectively 15 7
Additional paid in capital 29,051 11,113
Investment in LLC (450) -
Dividends on Series A convertible preferred stock (714) (119)
Accumulated deficit (15,212) (10,370)
Unrealized loss on securities - (700)
------------ -----------
Total Stockholders' Equity (Deficit) 12,690 (68)
------------ -----------
Total Liabilities and Stockholders'
Equity (Deficit) $ 16,889 $ 1,898
============ ==========
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements.
F-3
<PAGE>
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED JUNE 30, 1999 AND 1998
(Amounts in Thousands, Except Share and Per Share Data)
1999 1998
---- ----
Revenues 3,419 1,666
Cost of Revenues 567 339
------- -------
Gross Profit 2,852 1,327
Operating Expenses 8,009 3,985
------- -------
Loss from Operations (5,157) (2,658)
Other Income (Expense):
Interest expense (31) (116)
Investment Income 192 -
Gain (Loss) on sale of marketable securities 200 (63)
Other (44) (6)
------- -------
Loss Before Provision for Income Taxes (4,840) (2,843)
Income Tax Expense 2 -
------- -------
Net Loss Before Extraordinary Item (4,842) (2,843)
Extraordinary Item-Gain on Extinguishment
of Debt (Net of Income Tax of $0) - 47
------- -------
Net Loss $(4,842) $(2,796)
======= =======
(1) Programming, Support and License revenues include net revenues to related
parties of $501 and $215 for fiscal years 1999 and 1998, respectively.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements.
F-4
<PAGE>
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED JUNE 30, 1999 AND 1998
(Amounts in Thousands, Except Share and Per Share Data)
1999 1998
---- ----
Net Loss $ (4,842) $ (2,843)
Dividends on Preferred Stock (595) (329)
------------ ------------
Net Loss Attributable to Common Stockholders $ (5,437) $ (3,172)
============ ============
Basic and Diluted Loss per Share Before
Extraordinary Gain $ (.53) $ (.51)
Extraordinary Gain on Liabilities Subject
to Compromise - .01
------------ ------------
Basic and Diluted Net Loss per Common Share $ (.53) $ (.50)
============ ============
Shares Used in Computing Basic and Diluted
Share Data 10,235,286 6,048,471
============ ============
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements.
F-5
<PAGE>
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS EQUITY(DEFICIT)
FOR THE YEARS ENDED JUNE 30, 1999 AND 1998
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Series A Series B
Preferred Stock Preferred Stock Common Stock Additional
----------------- ------------------- ------------------- Paid In
Shares Amount Shares Amount Shares Amount Capital
------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Balance at June 30, 1997 662,500 $ 663 13,000 $ 130,000 4,605,815 $ 4,606 $ 5,334,895
------- ----- ------ --------- --------- --------- -----------
Issuance of preferred Series A
stock for cash 134,500 134 - - - - 268,866
Issuance of preferred Series A
stock in exchange for debt
payoff 45,000 45 - - - - 90,774
Conversion of preferred Series A
stock for common stock (150,000) (150) - - 300,000 300 (150)
Exchange of preferred Series B
stock for common stock - - (13,000) (130,000) 35,000 35 129,965
Issuance of common stock to
vendors and employees for
goods and services - - - - 38,512 38 131,930
Issuance of common stock for
preferred Series A dividends - - - - 59,363 59 118,666
Issuance of common stock for
capital contribution to LLC - - - - 300,000 300 449,700
Issuance of common stock for
stock options exercised - - - - 141,100 141 366,359
Issuance of common stock for
warrants exercised - - - - 29,507 30 62,470
Issuance of common stock for cash - - - - 930,501 931 2,060,069
Issuance of common stock for interest
due on notes payable - - - - 37,905 38 129,215
Issuance of common stock in exchange
for debt payoff - - - - 25,000 25 49,975
Conversion of outstanding debt to
common stock - - - - 958,000 958 1,915,042
Sale of warrants - - - - - - 5,000
Comprehensive Income:
Net loss - - - - - - -
Reversal of prior year unrealized
loss on securities - - - - - - -
Unrealized loss on securities - - - - - - -
Total Comprehensive Income - - - - - - -
------- ----- ------ --------- --------- --------- -----------
Balance at June 30, 1998 692,000 692 - - 7,460,703 7,461 11,112,776
------- ----- ------ --------- --------- --------- -----------
Accumulated Dividends on
Other Series A
Investment Comprehensive Accumulated Preferred
In LLC Loss Deficit Stock Total
---------- ------------- ----------- ---------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Balance at June 30, 1997 $ - $(330,775) $ (7,574,001) $ - $(2,434,612)
------- --------- ------------ --------- -----------
Issuance of preferred Series A
stock for cash - - - - 269,000
Issuance of preferred Series A
stock in exchange for debt
payoff - - - - 90,819
Conversion of preferred Series A
stock for common stock - - -
Exchange of preferred Series B
stock for common stock - - - - -
Issuance of common stock to
vendors and employees for
goods and services - - - - 131,968
Issuance of common stock for
preferred Series A dividends - - - (118,725) -
Issuance of common stock for
capital contribution to LLC - - - - 450,000
Issuance of common stock for
stock options exercised - - - - 366,500
Issuance of common stock for
warrants exercised - - - - 62,500
Issuance of common stock for cash - - - - 2,061,000
Issuance of common stock for interest
due on notes payable - - - - 129,253
Issuance of common stock in exchange
for debt payoff - - - - 50,000
Conversion of outstanding debt to
common stock - - - - 1,916,000
Sale of warrants - - - - 5,000
Comprehensive Income:
Net loss - - (2,795,545) - -
Reversal of prior year unrealized
loss on securities - 330,775 - - -
Unrealized loss on securities - (700,000) - - -
Total Comprehensive Income - - - - (3,164,770)
------- --------- ------------ -------- -----------
Balance at June 30, 1998 - (700,000) (10,369,546) (118,725) (67,342)
------- --------- ------------ -------- -----------
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements.
F-6
<PAGE>
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (DEFICIT)
FOR THE YEARS ENDED JUNE 30, 1999 AND 1998
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Series A Series B
Preferred Stock Preferred Stock Common Stock Additional
----------------- ------------------- ------------------- Paid In
Shares Amount Shares Amount Shares Amount Capital
------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Balance at June 30, 1998 692,000 $ 692 - - 7,460,703 7,461 11,112,776
------- ----- ---- ----- ---------- ---------- ------------
Conversion of Preferred Series A
stock for common stock (692,000) (692) - - 1,384,000 1,384 (692)
Issuance of common stock for
preferred Series A dividends - - - - 108,432 108 595,081
Issuance of common stock for cash - - - - 4,418,595 4,419 12,471,524
Issuance of common stock for
stock options exercised - - - - 149,376 149 234,006
Issuance of common stock for
warrants exercised - - - - 1,082,845 1,083 3,085,959
Conversion of outstanding debt to
common stock - - - - 70,123 70 140,517
Shares issued to effect acquisitions - - - - 220,872 221 1,245,942
Issuance of common stock to
vendors and employees for
goods and services - - - - 51,337 51 105,355
Warrants issued for services - - - - - - 60,000
Redesignation of investment in LLC - - - - - - -
Comprehensive Income:
Net loss - - - - - - -
Reversal of prior year unrealized
loss on securities - - - - - - -
Total Comprehensive Income - - - - - - -
------- ----- ---- ----- ---------- ---------- ------------
Balance at June 30, 1999 - $ - - $ - 14,946,283 $ 14,946 $ 29,050,468
======= ===== ==== ===== ========== ========== ============
<CAPTION>
Accumulated Dividends on
Other Series A
Investment Comprehensive Accumulated Preferred
In LLC Loss Deficit Stock Total
---------- ------------- ----------- ---------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Balance at June 30, 1998 - (700,000) (10,369,546) (118,725) (67,342)
-------- --------- ----------- ------- -----------
Conversion of Preferred Series A
stock for common stock - - - - -
Issuance of common stock for
preferred Series A dividends - - - (595,189) -
Issuance of common stock for cash - - - - 12,475,943
Issuance of common stock for
stock options exercised - - - - 234,155
Issuance of common stock for
warrants exercised - - - - 3,087,042
Conversion of outstanding debt to
common stock - - - - -
140,587
Shares issued to effect acquisitions - - - - 1,246,163
Issuance of common stock to
vendors and employees for
goods and services - - - - 105,406
Warrants issued for services - - - - 60,000
Redesignation of investment in LLC (450,000) - - - (450,000)
Comprehensive Income:
Net loss - - (4,842,003) - -
Reversal of prior year unrealized
loss on securities - 700,000 - - -
Total Comprehensive Income - - - - (4,142,003)
---------- --------- ------------ --------- -----------
Balance at June 30, 1999 $ (450,000) $ - $(15,211,549) $(713,914) $12,689,951
========== ========= ============ ========= ===========
</TABLE>
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements.
F-7
<PAGE>
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED JUNE 30, 1999 AND 1998
(Amounts in Thousands)
1999 1998
-------- -------
Cash Flows From Operating Activities
Net Loss $ (4,842) $(2,796)
-------- -------
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash
used in operating activities
Depreciation and amortization 531 333
Loss (gain) on investments - (1)
(Gain) Loss on sale of securities (200) 63
Gain on sale of fixed assets (26) -
Change in allowance for uncollectible accounts 33 -
Common stock issued for goods and services 78 10
Common stock issued for employee compensation 27 59
Common stock issued for interest - 52
Preferred stock issued for interest - 3
Warrants issued for services 60 -
Changes in assets and liabilities net of effect
from acquisitions
Trade receivables (1,504) (70)
Inventories 17 (12)
Prepaid expenses (279) (10)
Accounts payable 127 (17)
Accrued liabilities (12) (172)
Deferred revenue 1,779 (358)
-------- -------
Net adjustments 631 (120)
-------- -------
Net Cash Used in Operating Activities (4,211) (2,916)
-------- -------
Cash Flows From Investing Activities
Purchase of property and equipment (1,277) (212)
Note receivable additions (150) -
Note receivable payments 25 -
Cash acquired in acquisitions (8) 2
Proceeds from securities sales 600 745
Proceeds from fixed asset sales 29 -
Net change in other assets 80 (91)
-------- -------
Net Cash Provided (Used) in
Investing Activities (701) 444
-------- -------
Cash Flows From Financing Activities
Principal payments on capital lease obligations (3) (17)
Proceeds from notes payable - related parties 685 118
Payments on notes payable - related parties (730) (194)
Proceeds from notes payable 250 250
Payments on notes payable (669) (283)
Net proceeds from sale of common stock,
options and warrants 15,798 2,490
Net proceeds from sale of preferred stock - 269
Warrants issued for cash and services - 5
-------- -------
Net Cash Provided by
Financing Activities 15,331 2,638
-------- -------
Net Increase in Cash and Cash Equivalents 10,419 166
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Year 198 32
-------- -------
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Year $ 10,617 $ 198
======== =======
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements.
F-8
<PAGE>
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED JUNE 30, 1999 AND 1998
(Amounts in Thousands)
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
1999 1998
------- -------
Cash paid for interest $ 13 $ 151
======= =======
Cash paid for income taxes $ 1 $ 1
======= =======
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF NONCASH INVESTING AND FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
1999 1998
------- -------
Convertible debt for stock $ 140 $ 1,916
Common stock for accrued liabilities 50 77
Common stock for accounts payable - 63
Common stock for note payable - 50
Common stock for preferred stock dividends 595 119
Preferred stock for note payable - 90
Conversion of preferred stock to common stock 1 -
Common stock for LLC investment - 450
Common stock received for sale of technology 100 -
Common stock for customer base 200 -
Marketable securities allowance 700 (369)
Deferred revenue allowance - 292
Acquisition of Holloway Publications
Accounts receivable $ 135 $ -
Equipment 108 -
Intangibles and other assets 1,432 -
Liabilities assumed (211) -
Notes and capital leases assumed (493) -
------- -------
Stock issued to acquire Holloway Publications $ 971 $ -
======= =======
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
statements.
F-9
<PAGE>
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 1999 AND 1998
NOTE 1 - DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS AND FINANCING REQUIREMENTS
- -----------------------------------------------------------
Organization
HomeSeekers.com, Inc. (formerly NDS Software, Inc., or "NDS") was originally
incorporated under the laws of Nevada on October 28, 1987. On July 20, 1994, NDS
merged with XRF Corporation ("XRF"), which was incorporated in Utah. Through the
terms of the merger agreement, XRF, the surviving entity, acquired all of the
outstanding common stock of NDS and NDS ceased to exist. However, due to the
substance of the transaction, the merger has been treated as a purchase of XRF
by NDS (Note 3). Subsequent to the merger, XRF changed its name to NDS Software,
Inc. and has been re-domiciled in the State of Nevada. On May 15, 1998, NDS
changed its name to HomeSeekers.com, Inc.
HomeSeekers.com, Inc. offers desktop software products used by real estate
professionals to manage information, contacts and listings. The Company also
provides public access to approximately 50% of the real estate listings in the
U.S. Multiple Listing Service via the Internet through its HomeSeekers.com
Internet site. The Internet site allows potential home buyers to view multiple
listings using a standard Internet dial up connection. Additionally, the Company
provides an alternative access to the Multiple Listing Service on HomeSeekers
and CityNet, a product that opens the same data to a non-Internet connect home
buyer that has a computer and modem.
Risks and Uncertainties
The Company has not yet generated sufficient revenue and has funded its
operations primarily through the issuance of equity and convertible debt. The
Company's prospects are subject to the risks, expenses and uncertainties
frequently encountered by companies in the new and rapidly evolving markets for
Internet products and services. These risks include the inability of the Company
to maintain and increase the levels of traffic on its Internet site, the
rejection of the Company's services by consumers, real estate industry vendors
and advertisers, the failure to expand its home listing database to effectively
cover all localities, as well as other risks and uncertainties.
The Company experienced losses for every year since its inception in 1987
and had an accumulated deficit at June 30, 1999. Sufficient equity capital has
been raised throughout those years to fund operations and the Company's growth.
Accordingly, the Company's ability to accomplish its business strategy and to
ultimately achieve profitable operations is dependent upon its ability to obtain
additional financing and execute its business plan. There can be no assurance
that the Company will be able to obtain additional funding, and if available,
will be obtained on terms favorable to or affordable by the Company. Failure to
raise additional capital when needed could have a material adverse effect on the
Company's business, results of operations and financial condition.
F-10
<PAGE>
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 1999 AND 1998
NOTE 2 - SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
- ----------------------------------------
Principles of Consolidation and Basis of Presentation
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of
HomeSeekers.com, Inc. and its wholly owned subsidiaries. All significant
inter-company balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
Certain reclassifications have been made to prior year financial statements to
conform to the current years presentation.
Revenue Recognition
Revenues from sales of software licenses are recognized upon shipment of the
related product, net of revenues attributable to insignificant customer
obligations, if any. Advertising revenues are recognized ratably over the term
of the advertising agreement beginning at the time the advertisement is first
displayed on the Company's Internet site. Payments received from customers prior
to the Company shipping the product or displaying the advertisements are
recorded as deferred revenue.
In accordance with Statement of Position 97-2, the Company accounts for
certain software transactions for which there is no reasonable basis of
estimating the degree or probability of collectibility of related assets using
the installment method of accounting, effectively recording the transaction as
deferred revenue until the collectibility is probable (see Note 18).
Software Development Costs
The Company accounts for the costs of developing software products to be
sold in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards 86,
"Accounting for the Costs of Computer Software to be Sold, Leased, or Otherwise
Marketed" which requires the capitalization of costs only during the period from
the establishment of technological feasibility to the time at which the product
is available for general release to customers. In addition, the Company is
involved in activities to continually improve existing products. These costs are
not material to the Company's financial position or results of operations, and
have been charged to operating expenses in the accompanying statements of
operations.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash balances and instruments with
maturities of three months or less at the time of purchase.
F-11
<PAGE>
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 1999 AND 1998
NOTE 2 - SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Continued
- ----------------------------------------------------
Concentrations
Concentration of Credit Risk - Financial instruments which potentially subject
the Company to credit risk consist primarily of cash in bank, trade receivables,
and receivables from officers/stockholders. The Company maintains its cash in
various bank deposit accounts throughout the United States. Accounts at each
bank are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) up to
$100,000 per bank. The Company's accounts at these institutions, at times, may
exceed federally insured limits. The Company has not experienced any losses in
such accounts. At June 30, 1999, substantially all accounts receivables are due
from customers within the real estate and related industries.
Concentrations of Operations - All of the Company's current products are
designed for operation in the national domestic real estate market. Any
recessionary pressures or other disturbances in the national real estate market
could have an adverse effect on the Company's operations.
For the year ended June 30, 1999, 19% of the Company's revenues were received
from one customer for click-through customer leads generated from the Company's
Internet site and from its proprietary software. In addition, 12% of the
Company's revenues were received from one customer for the sale of mortgage
leads. Revenues received from a related party for the sale of technology and
custom programming accounted for 15% of the Company's revenues.
For the year ended June 30, 1998, 31% of the Company's revenues were received
from one customer for the sale of mortgage leads. In addition, 12% of the
Company's revenues were received from a related party for administrative
services and custom programming.
Financial Statements Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and
assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and
disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial
statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the
reporting period. Actual results could differ from these estimates.
F-12
<PAGE>
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 1999 AND 1998
NOTE 2 - SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Continued
- ----------------------------------------------------
Significant Estimates
Included in the accompanying balance sheet in investments, related party stock
are 400,000 shares of restricted common stock of a company related by common
shareholders. At June 30, 1998, the carrying value of the marketable securities
was $-0-, which represented management's estimate of the estimated fair market
value as of June 30, 1998. Such value was based on (1) the fact that the related
company was in the process of, but had not developed a public market for, its
shares as of June 30, 1998, (2) the block held by HomeSeekers was restricted
stock which could not be sold for at least one year after it was acquired, and
(3) the underlying net book value of the related company's stock, after
elimination of intercompany transactions, was zero. During fiscal 1999, the
related company's stock became listed on a public market and the Company
reversed its valuation allowance. Due to the volatility of the stock, which has
subjected it to wide swings in market value, the fair market value of such stock
on any given date could be substantially more or less than the amount of
$400,000 shown on the balance sheet at June 30, 1999 (see Note 4).
Marketable Securities
The Company's securities investments that are bought and held principally
for the purpose of selling them in the near term are classified as trading
securities. Trading securities are recorded at fair value in the balance sheet
in current assets, with the change in fair value during the period included in
earnings.
Securities investments that the Company has the positive intent and ability
to hold to maturity are classified as held-to-maturity securities and recorded
at amortized cost in investments and other assets. Securities investments not
classified as either held-to-maturity or trading securities are classified as
available-for-sale securities. Available-for-sale securities are recorded at
fair value in investments and other assets on the balance sheet, with the change
in fair value during the period excluded from earnings and recorded net of tax
as a separate component of equity.
The Company's investments in marketable equity securities are held for an
indefinite period and thus are classified as available-for-sale.
At June 30, 1999, the Company held available-for-sale securities with a fair
market value of $400,000. At June 30, 1998, the Company had securities with a
net recorded value of zero in available-for-sale securities (book value of
$700,000 less valuation allowance write down of $700,000 to fair market value of
$-0-).
F-13
<PAGE>
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 1999 AND 1998
NOTE 2 - SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Continued
- ----------------------------------------------------
Inventory
Inventory as of June 30, 1998 was recorded at the lower of cost (first-in,
first-out method) or market and consisted primarily of magazines for resale. The
Company had no inventory as of June 30, 1999.
Property and Equipment
Property and equipment are stated at cost. Depreciation, which includes the
amortization of assets recorded under capital leases, is calculated using the
straight line method over estimated useful lives of 3-5 years, or the lease
term, whichever is shorter.
Goodwill
The Company has classified as goodwill the cost in excess of fair value of
the net assets of companies acquired in purchase transactions. Goodwill is being
amortized on a straight line method over lives ranging from three (3) to fifteen
(15) years. Amortization charged to continuing operations amounted to $241,025
and $168,905 for the years ended June 30, 1999 and 1998, respectively.
Accumulated amortization at June 30, 1999 and 1998 was $587,227 and $317,702.
Licensed Technology
Licensed technology is stated at cost and is being amortized on a straight
line method over the life of the license of 5 years. Amortization charged to
continuing operations amounted to $15,000 for the year ended June 30, 1999.
Accumulated amortization at June 30, 1999 was $15,000.
Asset Impairment
The Company reviews its intangibles and other long-lived assets periodically
in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standard ("SFAS") No. 121,
Accounting for the Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and for Long-Lived Assets to
be Disposed of, to determine potential impairment by comparing the carrying
value of the assets with estimated undiscounted future cash flows expected to
result from the use of the assets, including cash flows from disposition. Based
on this analysis, if the sum of the expected future undiscounted net cash flow
is less than its carrying value, the Company would determine whether an
impairment loss should be recognized. Based upon its analysis, at June 30, 1998,
goodwill of $34,471 related to the Company's purchase of FOCUS was written off
because it was considered to have no continuing value.
F-14
<PAGE>
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 1999 AND 1998
NOTE 2 - SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Continued
- ----------------------------------------------------
Income Taxes
The Company accounts for income taxes by the asset/liability approach in
accordance with the provisions of SFAS No. 109, Accounting for Income Taxes.
Under this pronouncement, deferred income taxes, if any, reflect the estimated
future tax consequences when reported amounts of assets and liabilities are
recovered or paid. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are determined
based on differences between the financial reporting and tax bases of assets and
liabilities and are measured using the enacted tax rates and laws that are
scheduled to be in effect when the differences are expected to reverse. The
provision for income taxes, if any, represents the total income taxes paid or
payable for the current year, plus the change in deferred taxes during the year.
The tax benefits related to operating loss carryforwards are recognized if
management believes, based on available evidence, that it is more likely than
not that they will be realized.
Advertising
The Company periodically places advertisements on the radio, in newspapers
and magazines, and through television media. Costs of advertising are expensed
when incurred. Total advertising costs for the years ended June 30, 1999 and
1998 were $548,089 and $52,773, respectively.
Net Loss Per Share
In February, 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued SFAS No.
128, Earnings per Share. SFAS No. 128 simplifies the standards for computing
earnings per share ("EPS") and was effective for financial statements issued for
periods ending after December 15, 1997, with earlier application not permitted.
Upon adoption, all prior EPS data was restated.
Basic EPS is determined using net income divided by the weighted average
shares outstanding during the period. Diluted EPS is computed by dividing net
income by the weighted average shares outstanding, assuming all dilutive
potential common shares were issued.
Since the fully diluted loss per share for fiscal 1999 and 1998 was
antidilutive, basic and diluted earnings per share are the same. Accordingly,
options to purchase common stock in fiscal 1999 and 1998 of 4,082,874 shares and
3,609,200 shares, respectively, warrants to purchase common stock in fiscal 1999
and 1998 of 1,871,657 and 1,799,794 shares, respectively, common shares
potentially issuable upon conversion of convertible debt in fiscal 1999 and 1998
of -0- and 70,000 shares respectively, and common shares potentially issuable
upon conversion of preferred stock existing at the end of fiscal 1999 and 1998
of -0- and 1,384,000 shares, respectively, were not included in the calculation
of diluted earnings per common share.
F-15
<PAGE>
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 1999 AND 1998
NOTE 2 - SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Continued
- ----------------------------------------------------
Stock Options
The Company adopted SFAS No. 123, Accounting for Stock Based Compensation,
which is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 1995, or
earlier as permitted. As provided by SFAS No. 123, the Company will continue to
account for employee stock options under Accounting Principles Board (APB)
Opinion No. 25, Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees. The Company has
disclosed the proforma net loss and earnings per share effect, as if the Company
had used the fair value based method prescribed under SFAS No. 123 in Note 14.
New Accounting Standards
In June, 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued SFAS No.
130, Reporting Comprehensive Income. SFAS No. 130 establishes standards for
reporting and presentation of comprehensive income and its components in a full
set of general-purpose financial statements. This statement does not, however,
require a specific format for the disclosure but requires the Company to display
an amount representing total comprehensive income for the period in its
financial statements. Comprehensive income is determined by adjusting net income
by other items not included as a component of net income, such as the unrealized
loss on marketable securities. The Company implemented SFAS No. 130 for its
fiscal year 1999. Total comprehensive income is shown in the consolidated
statement of stockholders' equity (deficit).
In June, 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued SFAS No. 131,
Disclosures about Segments of an enterprise and Related Information. SFAS No.
131 establishes standards for the manner in which public business enterprises
report information about operating segments in annual financial statements and
requires that those enterprises report selected information about operating
segments in interim financial reports issued to shareholders. This statement
also requires that a public business enterprise report financial and descriptive
information about its reportable operating segments. The Company has determined
that segment disclosures are not appropriate because the Company operates in
only one segment.
In December, 1997, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
issued Statement of Position ("SOP") 97-2, Software Revenue Recognition, which
superseded SOP 91-1, Software Revenue Recognition. SOP 97-2 was effective for
transactions entered into by the Company's after January 1, 1998. The adoption
of SOP 97-2 did not have a material effect on the Company's consolidated
financial statements or the timing of the Company's revenue recognition.
F-16
<PAGE>
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 1999 AND 1998
NOTE 2 - SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Continued
- ----------------------------------------------------
New Accounting Standards - Continued
During 1998, the Company also adopted SOP 98-1, Accounting for the Costs of
Computer Software Developed or Obtained for Internal Use. SOP 98-1 establishes
the accounting practice for capitalization of certain costs incurred in
connection with the acquisition or development of computer software to be used
for internal purposes, including internal costs. The adoption of SOP 98-1 did
not have a material effect on the Company's consolidated financial statements or
cause the Company to capitalize any material costs associated with the
acquisition or development of computer software to be used by the Company for
internal purposes.
In June, 1998, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued SFAS 131,
Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, however, the
effective date for this pronouncement was delayed for one year from the original
effective date of fiscal years beginning after June 15, 1999. Since the Company
does not deal in derivative instruments or hedging activities, it is anticipated
that this pronouncement will have no impact on the Company's consolidated
financial statements.
NOTE 3 - BUSINESS ACQUISITIONS AND DISPOSITIONS
- -----------------------------------------------
On July 20, 1994, the Company merged with XRF Corporation, (XRF), (a Utah
corporation). Through the terms of the merger agreement, XRF, the surviving
entity, acquired all of the outstanding common stock of NDS and NDS ceased to
exist. The existing stockholders of XRF retained their 1,192,352 shares and the
stockholders of NDS received shares of XRF at a ratio of 76.5 to 1 for a total
of 1,700,000 shares. Due to majority ownership of the Company after the
transaction by NDS stockholders, and XRF's lack of substantial assets,
liabilities, or marketable products, the transaction was treated as a reverse
acquisition of XRF by NDS using the purchase method for accounting purposes.
During 1996, 1997, 1998, and 1999, the Company completed the business
combinations discussed below, all of which were accounted for by the purchase
method of accounting. Accordingly, results of operations for the acquired
businesses have been included in the consolidated statements of operations from
their respective dates of acquisition. Assets acquired and liabilities assumed
have been recorded at fair value based on the best information available.
F-17
<PAGE>
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 1999 AND 1998
NOTE 3 - BUSINESS ACQUISITIONS AND DISPOSITIONS - Continued
- -----------------------------------------------------------
Visual Listings, Inc.
Effective May 8, 1996, Visual Listing, Inc. (a California corporation)
became a subsidiary of the Company as part of an agreement in which the Company
acquired all of the outstanding shares of VLI in return for 280,000 shares of
the Company' common stock valued at $560,000. The acquisition resulted in the
assumption of net liabilities of $77,696.
FOCUS Publications, Inc.
On August 11, 1997, Focus Publications, Inc. (a California corporation)
became a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company as part of an agreement in which
the Company acquired all of the outstanding shares of FOCUS in return for 20,000
shares of the Company's common stock valued at $50,000. The excess of the
purchase price over the estimated fair value of the acquired net assets, which
approximates $41,000, was recorded as goodwill. During the fourth quarter of
fiscal year 1998, the Company amortized the $34,000 remaining balance of the
goodwill associated with this purchase due to concerns about its ultimate
recovery.
During the fiscal year ended June 30, 1999, the Company sold the assets
comprising the Focus Publications purchase back to the original owner, resulting
in a gain of $25,975 included in other income.
Genstar Media
On August 4, 1998, the Company purchased substantially all of the assets of
Genstar Media, a sole proprietorship engaged in the business of offering
websites and e-mail to realtors. These assets included their customer base,
computers and other media equipment, and the business name. The purchase price
consisted of 50,000 shares of the Company's common stock issued to the seller.
The Company valued the securities issued at approximately $225,000 based on the
approximate fair market value of the common stock on the date of acquisition. In
addition, the Company committed to the contingent issuance of common stock
having an aggregate value of $400,000 if certain revenue thresholds are met. The
additional shares, if issued, will be allocated as additional consideration
attributable to the customer base purchased. During the year ended June 30,
1999, the revenue levels necessary to issue $200,000 in additional common stock
were met, and the Company allocated an additional $200,000 to the customer base.
The proforma results of operations would not have been materially different than
the historical results reported.
F-18
<PAGE>
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 1999 AND 1998
NOTE 3 - BUSINESS ACQUISITIONS AND DISPOSITIONS - Continued
- -----------------------------------------------------------
Holloway Publications, Inc.
On May 28, 1999, the Company acquired all of the issued and outstanding
common stock of Holloway Publications, Inc. ("Holloway"), a non-public real
estate magazine publication company located in Indiana, in exchange for 150,872
shares of the Company's common stock, valued at $971,163 based on the
approximate fair market value of the common stock at the date of acquisition.
The acquisition was accounted for using the purchase method of accounting and
resulted in the assumption of net liabilities of $333,270. The purchase price
was allocated substantially to acquired goodwill, the customer base, accounts
receivable and equipment acquired in the acquisition. In addition, subsequent to
the purchase date, the Company paid off all of the outstanding bank notes
payable of Holloway Publications, along with certain accounts payable and
stockholder loans, in the total amount of $475,184.
The following summarized pro forma (unaudited) information assumes the
acquisition had occurred on July 1, 1997:
1999 1998
----------- -----------
Net Sales $ 4,710,093 $ 2,726,556
=========== ===========
Loss before extraordinary items $(5,235,059) $(2,749,015)
=========== ===========
Net Loss $(5,235,059) $(2,702,265)
=========== ===========
Earnings per share:
Basic
Loss before extraordinary items $ (.56) $ (.50)
=========== ===========
Net loss $ (.56) $ (.49)
=========== ===========
The above amounts reflect adjustments for interest expense on notes payable
paid off subsequent to the purchase date and the amortization of goodwill
associated with the purchase.
F-19
<PAGE>
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 1999 AND 1998
NOTE 4 - INVESTMENTS IN MARKETABLE SECURITIES
- ---------------------------------------------
The Company's investments in marketable securities are held for an
indefinite period and thus are classified as available for sale. Unrealized
holding losses on such securities, which were subtracted from stockholders'
equity during 1999 and 1998 were $-0- and $700,000, respectively. Unrealized
holding gains, which were added to stockholder's equity during 1999 and 1998
were $700,000 and $-0-, respectively.
Investments in marketable securities are summarized as follows at June 30:
Gross Gross
Unrealized Unrealized Fair
Gain Loss Value
-------- --------- --------
1999
- ----
Available for sale securities:
Common Stock, related party $700,000 $ - $400,000
======== ========= ========
1998
- ----
Available for sale securities:
Common Stock, related party $ - $(700,000) $ -
======== ========= ========
As of June 30, 1999, the Company had $400,000 of common stock from a related
party with a valuation allowance of zero. During the year ended June 30, 1999,
the Company sold 400,000 shares of the related party stock to an unaffiliated
party for $600,000. Since the revenues earned by the Company had been deferred
due to collectibility issues, the sale of the stock enabled the Company to
recognize $400,000 in deferred income and a gain on sale of $200,000.
Additionally, the Company acquired an additional $100,000 of related party stock
as consideration for selling certain technology to the related party. Prior to
this agreement, the Company had licensed this technology to the related party.
As of June 30, 1998, the Company had temporarily written down common stock
it received as payment for an account receivable on a licensing fee sold to a
related party from $700,000 to $-0-. The common stock was classified on the
balance sheet as securities available-for-sale at its estimated temporary fair
market value of $-0- as of June 30, 1998. The fair market value of $-0- was
based on (1) the fact that the related company was in the process of, but had
not developed a public market for, its shares as of June 30, 1998, (2) the block
held by HomeSeekers was restricted stock which could not be sold for at least
one year after it was acquired, (3) even if the stock were publicly tradeable,
the block was too large to sell in a public market at the current time, and (4)
the underlying net book value of the related company's stock, after elimination
of intercompany transactions, was zero. However, until the related entity was
trading its common stock on a public stock market, which did not occur until the
Company's 1999 fiscal year, no market was available for the Company to sell its
current holdings as of June 30, 1998.
F-20
<PAGE>
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 1999 AND 1998
NOTE 4 - INVESTMENTS IN MARKETABLE SECURITIES - Continued
- ---------------------------------------------------------
Realized gains and losses are determined on the basis of first-in,
first-out. During fiscal 1999 and 1998, sales proceeds and gross realized gains
and losses on securities classified as available for sale were as follows:
1999 1998
--------- ---------
Sales Proceeds $ 600,000 $ 744,875
========= =========
Gross Realized Losses $ - $ (63,125)
========= =========
Gross Realized Gains $ 200,000 $ -
========= =========
NOTE 5 - INVESTMENTS IN LLCs
- ----------------------------
Investments in jointly owned limited liability companies in which the
Company has a 20% to 50% interest or otherwise exercises significant influence
are carried at cost, adjusted for the Company's proportionate share of their
undistributed earnings or losses. Investments consist of the following at June
30:
Percent Owned
------------------------
1999 1998
---- ----
HomeSeekers/iQualify, LLC 50% 50%
RealtySeekers, LLC 50% 50%
ReoSeekers, LLC 25% 25%
Following is a summary of financial position and results of operations of
limited liability company investees:
1999 1998
-------- ---------
Current Assets $ 1,181 $ 1,373
Other Assets 450,000 450,000
-------- ---------
Total Assets $451,181 $ 451,373
======== =========
Current Liabilities $ 31,626 $ 31,626
Members' Equity 419,555 419,747
-------- ---------
Total Liabilities and Members' Equity $451,181 $ 451,373
======== =========
Sales $ - $ 32,489
======== =========
Net Income (Loss) $ - $ (30,252)
======== =========
F-21
<PAGE>
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 1999 AND 1998
NOTE 5 - INVESTMENTS IN LLCs - Continued
- ----------------------------------------
During the year ended June 30, 1998, in order to obtain the right to have
access to a desktop underwriter program sponsored by Fannie Mae and Freddy Mac,
the Company entered into an LLC agreement with a public mortgage company
("Finet") wherein the Company obligated itself to perform certain duties, such
as the creation of a Website and the creation of sufficient traffic to the site
to generate a certain number of qualified consumer loan leads. In order to
secure its obligation to perform these duties, the Company was required to
contribute 300,000 shares of its common stock as a capital contribution to the
LLC. If the Company fails to meet certain performance criteria outlined in the
LLC agreement, and its partner, Finet, has met its performance criteria, then
Finet has the right to withdraw from the LLC a pro-rata amount of the 300,000
shares of the Company's stock on an annual basis, limited to 100,000 shares per
year. As of June 30, 1998, the Company did not consider its investment in the
LLC, consisting of its own restricted common stock to be a receivable since the
ultimate return of the stock could not be established due to the performance
criteria restriction.
During the year ended June 30, 1999, the Company renegotiated its operating
relationship with Finet, and (1) entered into a license agreement that replaced
the LLC described in the paragraph above, and (2) entered into an agreement to
dissolve the LLC.
The Company intends to liquidate the LLC by December 31, 1999 and sell the
300,000 shares of common stock that the Company contributed to the LLC in the
marketplace. Therefore, as of June 30, 1999, due to the change in the nature and
use of this stock, the Company has reclassified the $450,000 associated with
these 300,000 shares of common stock from assets to an offset to stockholders'
equity.
The license agreement calls for the Company and Finet to create and operate
a mortgage loan center at www.interloan.com/homeseekers on the Internet where
the Company will supply mortgage applicant leads to Finet in exchange for
certain cash payments. The Company paid Finet $450,000 in February 1999 for the
use of their mortgage application technology. Finet shall pay the Company
non-refundable "slotting fees" totaling $720,000 between September 1, 1999 and
June 1, 2000 for mortgage customer leads sent to Finet via this new Internet
site from the Company's web sites. The slotting fees translate into $1.00 per
"unique click-through" lead. The company is obligated to provide Finet with
720,000 unique click-through leads for the $720,000 in slotting fees. The
Company is recognizing the revenue from this license agreement as it provides
the customer leads to Finet. Additionally, the Company will receive $50,000 per
year over a five-year period from Finet for a link on the Company's "Realty
2000" real estate agent browser software.
F-22
<PAGE>
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 1999 AND 1998
NOTE 6 - PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
- -------------------------------
Property and equipment consisted of the following at June 30:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1999 1998
---------- --------
<S> <C> <C>
Computer Equipment $1,192,666 $720,671
Software 210,001 103,528
Furniture and office equipment 296,123 91,761
Leasehold improvements 156,447 13,542
Vehicles 55,000 -
Equipment under capital lease 123,157 68,976
---------- --------
2,033,394 998,478
Less: Accumulated depreciation and amortization (787,422) (460,294)
Accumulated amortization under capital leases (76,295) (47,609)
---------- --------
$1,169,677 $490,575
========== ========
</TABLE>
Depreciation and amortization expense for the fiscal years ended June 30,
1999 and 1998 amounted to $281,789 and $332,689, respectively. Amortization
expense under capital leases was $1,265 and $13,795 for the years ended June 30,
1999 and 1998, respectively.
NOTE 7 - OTHER ASSETS
- ---------------------
Other assets consist of the following at June 30:
1999 1998
-------- --------
Deposits $ 30,196 $ 10,155
Deposit on purchase of Opticom Corporation - 100,000
Trademark, net of accumulated amortization of
$3,667 in 1999 and $3,281 in 1998 5,984 6,370
Debt issue costs, net of accumulated amortization
of $9,600 in 1999 and $6,667 in 1998 - 2,933
-------- --------
$ 36,180 $119,458
======== ========
F-23
<PAGE>
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 1999 AND 1998
NOTE 8 - ACCRUED LIABILITIES
- ----------------------------
Accrued liabilities consisted of the following at June 30:
1999 1998
-------- --------
Accrued payroll and related expenses $431,367 $190,495
Other accrued liabilities 22,942 102,475
-------- --------
$454,309 $292,970
======== ========
NOTE 9 - NOTES PAYABLE
- ----------------------
Short-term notes payable consisted of the following amounts at June 30:
1999 1998
------- -------
Note payable to unrelated third party,
interest payable monthly at 12% per
annum, principal due on May 30, 1997,
unsecured $ - $29,698
------- -------
$ - $29,698
======= =======
NOTE 10 - NOTES PAYABLE TO RELATED PARTIES
- ------------------------------------------
Short-term notes payable to related parties consisted of the following
amounts at June 30:
1999 1998
------- -------
Notes payable to related parties
acquired in acquisition of VLI,
interest accrues at annual rates
of 16.65% to 18%, principal and
unpaid accrued interest due on
demand, unsecured $ - $31,595
Note payable to related parties
acquired in acquisition of
Holloway Publications, no specific
repayment terms, interest accrues
at rate of 12% per annum, unsecured 13,000 -
------- -------
$13,000 $31,595
======= =======
At June 30, 1999, the weighted average interest rate on all short-term
borrowings including related party borrowings was 12%. The Company incurred
$23,631 and $12,306 in related party interest expense for the years ended June
30, 1999 and 1998, respectively.
F-24
<PAGE>
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 1999 AND 1998
NOTE 11 - CAPITAL LEASE OBLIGATIONS
- -----------------------------------
Capital lease obligations consist of the following:
Year Ended June 30,
----------------------
1999 1998
-------- -------
Capital lease payable to Star Financial Bank,
dated February, 1999, payable at $1,353 per
month, including interest imputed at 8.3%
per annum, maturity February, 2002, secured
by certain software, personally uaranteed by
a shareholder $ 45,106 $ -
Capital lease payable to GE Capital Trans
Leasing, dated December, 1996, payable at
$1,219 per month including interest imputed
at 13% per annum, maturity November, 1999,
secured by certain computer equipment,
personally guaranteed by a shareholder 5,898 -
Capital lease payable to GE Capital Trans
Leasing, dated March, 1998, payable at $243
per month including interest imputed at 14%
per annum, maturity March, 2001, secured by
certain computer equipment, personally
guaranteed by a shareholder 4,513 -
Capital lease payable to Star Financial Bank,
dated October, 1998, payable at $683 per
month including interest imputed at 21%
per annum, maturitym December, 2002, secured
by certain magazine racks, personally
guaranteed by a shareholder 19,821 -
-------- -------
75,338 -
Less Current Portion (25,752) -
-------- -------
Long Term Capital Lease Obligation $ 49,586 $ -
======== =======
F-25
<PAGE>
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 1999 AND 1998
NOTE 11 - CAPITAL LEASE OBLIGATIONS - Continued
- -----------------------------------------------
The amount of interest cost incurred for the year ended June 30, 1999 was
$805.
Following are maturities of capital lease obligations for each of the next
five years:
Year ended
June 30, Amount
---------- -------
2000 $25,752
2001 21,625
2002 22,039
2003 5,922
2004 and thereafter -
-------
$75,338
=======
NOTE 12 - CONVERTIBLE REDEEMABLE PROMISSORY NOTES WITH WARRANTS
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
During the year ended June 30, 1997, the Company completed a $1,500,000, 60
unit private placement of unsecured convertible redeemable promissory notes with
attached redeemable common stock purchase warrants priced at $25,000 per unit. A
unit included a redeemable promissory note and a warrant. At June 30, 1997, the
Company had placed 60 units and received $1,500,000.
Also during the year ended June 30, 1997, the Company commenced and
completed a $500,000, 20 unit private placement of unsecured convertible
redeemable promissory notes with attached redeemable common stock purchase
warrants priced at $25,000 per unit. A unit included a redeemable promissory
note and a warrant. At June 30, 1997, the Company had placed 23.24 units and
received $581,000.
The notes had a maturity date of June 1, 1999 and accrued interest at 12%
per annum payable semi-annually beginning December 1, 1996. As of June 30, 1999,
all notes had been paid in full.
Each unit also consists of a warrant to purchase 12,500 shares of the
Company's common stock at an exercise price of $3 per share at any time prior to
June 15, 1998, which was extended until June 15, 1999. At June 30, 1998,
warrants to purchase 1,040,500 shares of the Company's common stock had been
issued to the note holders. As of June 30, 1999, all of these warrant holders
had exercised their warrants.
F-26
<PAGE>
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 1999 AND 1998
NOTE 12 - CONVERTIBLE REDEEMABLE PROMISSORY NOTES WITH WARRANTS - Continued
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
During the years ended June 30, 1999 and 1998, convertible debt in the
amount of $140,000 and $1,916,000, respectively, was exchanged for the Company's
common stock at the rate of one share of the Company's common stock for each $2
of indebtedness. As of June 30, 1999, all of the convertible debt has either
been repaid or converted into common stock.
NOTE 13 - COMMITMENTS
- ---------------------
Leases
The Company leases its facilities under five non-cancelable operating
leases. One facility lease includes an escalation clause based on the consumer
price index and is adjusted on an annual basis and has a term of five years. The
Company also has a service agreement with an Internet access provider. The
following is a schedule, by years, of the future minimum lease payments under
operating leases, together with the net minimum lease payments as of June 30,
1999.
Years ending June 30,
2000 $ 330,348
2001 250,562
2002 231,408
2003 234,531
2004 245,344
Thereafter 20,091
----------
Totals $1,312,284
==========
Rental expense for all operating leases was $136,283 and $119,000 for the
years ended June 30, 1999 and 1998, respectively.
F-27
<PAGE>
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 1999 AND 1998
NOTE 13 - COMMITMENTS - Continued
- ---------------------------------
Capital Leases
The Company has computer equipment and software with a net book value of
$46,862 (accumulated depreciation of $76,295) under capital leases at June 30,
1999.
Minimum future lease payments under the capital leases as of June 30, 1999,
for each of the next five years and in aggregate is as follows:
Year ending
June 30, Amount
------------- --------
2000 $ 33,452
2001 26,628
2002 24,437
2003 6,123
2004 and thereafter -
--------
90,640
Less: amount representing interest (15,302)
--------
Present value of minimum lease payments $ 75,338
========
The interest rate on capitalized leases varies from 8.3% to 21.17% and is
imputed based on the lessor's implicit rate of return.
Employment Agreements
During May and June of 1996, the Company entered into employment agreements
with three officers. The agreements are for a five-year period and call for an
annual salary for each officer of $70,000 and an annual bonus of 4% of pre-tax
earnings. Effective September 1, 1996, each officer's annual salary increased to
$100,000. An additional increase called for in the agreements to $144,000 was
effective March 4, 1997. The agreements were restructured on March 9, 1999 to
include stock options to purchase 100,000 shares of common stock annually,
commencing March 9, 2000. Additionally, in the event of an involuntary
termination, each officer is entitled to receive a severance salary equal to 5
years of the annual base pay earned by the officer immediately prior to
termination.
During the fiscal year ended June 30, 1999, the Company entered into
employment agreements with several key employees. The agreements are for a
three-year period commencing July 1, 1999 and call for annual salaries ranging
from $40,000 to $120,000 and various incentive bonuses. Each employee also
received stock options to purchase 40,000 to 120,000 shares of common stock.
F-28
<PAGE>
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 1999 AND 1998
NOTE 13 - COMMITMENTS - Continued
- ---------------------------------
Federal and State Income Tax Returns
At the current time, the Company is in the process of completing the proper
returns to bring all federal and state tax filings current.
Legal Proceedings
The Company is a defendant in a civil action filed by a Company with a
similar name for alleged trademark and trade name infringement. The suit asks
for unspecified damages. The Company believes the suit is completely without
merit and intends to vigorously defend its position.
NOTE 14 - STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
On July 15, 1997, the Company amended its articles of incorporation
regarding authorized shares. The Company is authorized to issue 50,000,000
shares of common stock, par value $.001 per share, 5,000,000 shares of Series A
preferred stock, par value $.001 per share, 200,000 shares of Series B preferred
stock, par value $10.00 per share, and 4,800,000 shares of undesignated
preferred stock, par value $.001 per share. On the same date, the Company filed
a certificate of designation creating a class of 400,000 shares of Series C
preferred stock, par value $.001 per share.
Common Stock
As of June 30, 1999, the Company has reserved a total of 5,954,531 shares of
common stock pursuant to outstanding warrants and options.
Warrants to purchase 1,082,845 common shares were exercised during fiscal
1999 at prices averaging $2.85 per share. Warrants to purchase 29,507 common
shares were exercised during fiscal 1998 at prices averaging $2.12 per share.
Options to purchase 149,376 common shares were exercised during fiscal 1999 at
an average price of $1.56 per share. Options to purchase 141,100 common shares
were exercised during fiscal 1998 at an average price of $2.60 per share.
Redeemable Common Stock Warrants
In May 1996, and in consideration for assisting the Company in raising at
least $2,500,000 in financing, which included the convertible redeemable
promissory notes (Note 12), the Company entered into a consulting agreement with
a partnership to perform business advisory services in exchange for three (3)
redeemable warrants to purchase 150,000 shares of common stock each, 50,000
shares of common stock and $50,000. The warrants each have a five year life from
the date of issuance and are exercisable at $1.75, $3 and $4 per share.
F-29
<PAGE>
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 1999 AND 1998
NOTE 14 - STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY - Continued
- ------------------------------------------
Redeemable Common Stock Warrants - Continued
Warrants for the purchase of common shares that were issued and outstanding
as of June 30, 1999 are summarized below:
Number of Exercise Year of
Warrants Price Expiration
--------- --------- ----------
270,000 $ 1.47 1999-2002
494,530 2.00-2.50 1999-2004
587,127 3.00-3.50 1999-2004
170,000 4.00-4.56 2001-2002
150,000 5.50 2002
200,000 6.00-6.25 2000-2004
---------
1,871,657
=========
In March, 1998, the Board of Directors authorized the sale of warrants to
purchase 75,000 common shares at $3.00 per share for consideration of $5,000.
During fiscal 1999, a total of 1,154,708 warrants expiring on various dates
in 1999 through 2004 to purchase common shares at exercise prices of $2.00 to
$6.25 were issued to consultants and investors. During fiscal 1998, a total of
409,801 warrants expiring on various dates in 1998 through 2001 to purchase
common shares at exercise prices of $1.47 to $5.00 were issued to consultants
and investors.
Preferred Stock
Series A
Series A preferred stock has a par value of $.001 and is entitled to a
cumulative dividend, when declared, of 15% per annum based upon a value of $2
per share. At the option of the board of directors, each share of stock can be
redeemed at $2 per share, or, at the option of the shareholder, each share of
stock can be converted to common stock at a rate of two shares of common stock
for each share of preferred. Upon conversion to common stock, accumulated
dividends shall be paid through the issuance of additional common shares or the
payment of cash at the option of the board of directors. Each share of series A
preferred stock is entitled to the voting rights of five shares of common stock.
During the year ended June 30, 1999, all 692,000 outstanding shares of Series A
convertible preferred stock and the related dividends were converted into common
stock.
F-30
<PAGE>
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 1999 AND 1998
NOTE 14 - STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY - Continued
- ------------------------------------------
Series B
Series B preferred stock has a par value of $10.00 and is entitled to a
cumulative dividend, when declared, of 9% per annum based upon a value of $10
per share. At the option of the board of directors, each share of stock can be
redeemed at $10 per share or can be converted to common stock at a rate of five
shares of common stock for each share of preferred. Conversion to common stock
cannot occur until at least six months after issuance and if the listed price of
the Company's common stock has been at least $3 for at least ten consecutive
trading days with an aggregate volume of no less than 20,000 shares. Upon
redemption or conversion to common stock, accumulated dividends shall be paid.
Each share of Series B preferred stock is not entitled to the voting rights of
common stock.
During fiscal year 1996 and as part of a financing arrangement with a
private company (the "Investor"), the Company issued 40,500 shares of Series B
convertible preferred stock to the investor for which it received $70,000 in
cash, $60,000 in other consideration, and a $275,000 note receivable.
Additionally, the Company issued 2,500,000 shares of the Company's common stock
to the investor as collateral in exchange for fourteen weekly funding
commitments of $135,000 each and a final funding of $110,000, totaling
$2,000,000. No funding occurred in conjunction with the funding schedule and the
investor defaulted on the agreement. As a result of the default, the Company
filed a complaint against the investor whereby it demanded the return of the
2,500,000 shares of common stock and certain of the Series B preferred shares.
The investor returned the 2,500,000 shares of common stock and 27,500 shares of
Series B preferred shares to the Company. In fiscal 1998, the suit was mediated
to a settlement which allowed the Company to reclaim the remaining 13,000 shares
of Series B preferred shares in exchange for the issuance of 35,000 shares of
common stock.
Series C
Series C preferred stock has a par value of $.001 and is entitled to a
cumulative dividend, payable annually in arrears, of 6% per annum based upon a
value of $10 per share. Each share of Series C preferred stock may be converted
into common stock at the higher price of $3.00 per share or at a price per share
equal to 75% of the average of the closing bid prices of the common stock of the
Company for the five trading days preceding the closing of the Company's private
offering of Series C preferred stock. Each share of Series C preferred stock is
not entitled to the voting rights of common stock.
At June 30, 1999, there were no outstanding shares of Series A, Series B or
Series C preferred stock. At June 30, 1998, there were 692,000 outstanding of
Series A preferred stock and no outstanding shares of Series B or Series C
preferred stock.
F-31
<PAGE>
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 1999 AND 1998
NOTE 14 - STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY - Continued
- ------------------------------------------
Dividends
Due to the conversion of 692,000 shares of Series A preferred stock to
common stock in fiscal 1999, the Company paid dividends in arrears on the
converted shares at an average rate of $.86 per share, totaling $595,189. The
dividends were paid by the issuance of 108,432 shares of common stock. Due to
the conversion of 150,000 shares of Series A preferred stock to common stock in
February, 1998, the Company paid dividends in arrears on the converted shares at
the rate of $.79 per share, totaling $118,725. The dividends were paid by the
issuance of additional common stock.
At June 30, 1999, all dividends in arrears on the 15% cumulative Series A
preferred stock were paid in full.
NOTE 15 - 1996 STOCK OPTION PLAN
On October 9, 1996, the Company's Board of Directors ratified a stock option
plan under which the Company may grant qualified and non-qualified incentive
stock options to employees, directors, and consultants. As part of the
provisions of the plan, the Company may grant, but is not obligated to grant,
options that include reload features. The Company has reserved 5.5 million
shares of its common stock for issuance under the plan. Options granted
generally have terms from one to five years from the date of grant and generally
vest immediately or ratably over their terms. The exercise price of incentive
stock options granted under the plan may not be less than 100% of the fair
market value of the Company's common stock on the date of the grant. For a
person who at the time of the grant owns stock representing 10% of the voting
power of all classes of the Company's stock, the exercise price of the incentive
stock options granted under the plan may not be less than 110% of the fair
market value of the common stock on the date of the grant. During fiscal year
1999, the Company amended and restated the 1996 Stock Option Plan to allow
employees 90 days after separation from the Company to exercise all vested
options.
The Company applies APB Opinion 25 in accounting for its fixed stock option
plan. Accordingly, since the market value and the option price of the Company's
stock were equal on the measurement date, no compensation cost has been
recognized for the plan in 1999 and 1998. Had compensation cost been determined
on the basis of fair value pursuant to FASB Statement No. 123, net income (loss)
and earnings per share would have been impacted as follows:
1999 1998
------------ ------------
Net Income (Loss)
As reported $ (4,842,003) $ (2,795,545)
============ ===========
Pro forma $ (7,164,746) $ (4,544,101)
============ ===========
F-32
<PAGE>
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 1999 AND 1998
NOTE 15 - 1996 STOCK OPTION PLAN - Continued
- --------------------------------------------
Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share
As reported $ (.53) $ (0.50)
============ ============
Pro forma $ (.70) $ (.75)
============ ============
The pro forma amounts were estimated using the Black-Scholes option pricing
model with the following assumptions for fiscal 1999 and 1998:
1999 1998
--------- ---------
Dividend Yield 0% 0%
Risk-Free Interest Rate 5.5% 5.50%
Expected Life 0-8 years 1-5 years
Expected Volatility 108.40% 115.47%
Expected lives are equal to the remaining option terms for both years,
dividend yields are 0% since the Company does not intend to pay dividends on its
common stock in the near term.
Compensation expense that would have been charged to operations had the
provisions of FASB 123 been applied were $2,322,743 in 1999 and $1,748,556 in
1998.
Following is a summary of the status of options outstanding during the
years ended June 30, 1999 and 1998:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEAR ENDED 6-30-99 YEAR ENDED 6-30-98
------------------------- ------------------------
Weighted Weighted
Average Average
Exercise Exercise
# of Shares Price # of Shares Price
----------- ----- ----------- -----
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Outstanding at July 1 3,609,200 $1.76 2,965,800 $2.97
Granted 1,266,250 4.90 867,500 2.65
Canceled (633,200) 3.00 (83,000) 4.31
Exercised (159,376) 1.56 (141,100) 2.60
---------- ----- --------- -----
Outstanding at June 30 4,082,874 2.58 3,609,200 1.76
Options exercisable at
June 30 3,617,749 1.98 3,512,949 1.76
Weighted average fair value
of options granted during
1999 and 1998 1.32 2.02
</TABLE>
F-33
<PAGE>
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 1999 AND 1998
NOTE 15 - 1996 STOCK OPTION PLAN - Continued
- --------------------------------------------
During the year ended June 30, 1998, the Company repriced certain options
held by employees to an exercise price of $1.47, which equaled the fair market
value of the Company's common stock on the repricing date. Prior to the
repricing, the options had exercise prices ranging from $2.00 to $5.56. As a
result of the repricing, the weighted average exercise price for fiscal 1998 was
lower than in the prior fiscal year.
The following table summarizes information regarding stock options
outstanding at June 30, 1999:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Outstanding Options Exercisable Options
------------------------- ----------------------
Weighted
Average Weighted Weighted
Remaining Average Average
Exercise Contractual Exercise Exercise
Price Range Number Life Price Number Price
----------- --------- ---------- -------- --------- --------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
$ 1.47 2,623,124 3.48 years $ 1.47 2,598,124 $ 1.47
1.93 5,000 1.75 years 1.93 5,000 1.93
2.00 96,000 6.5 months 2.00 96,000 2.00
2.38 530,000 4.11 years 2.38 530,000 2.38
2.62 62,500 1.78 years 2.62 62,500 2.62
4.00 2,500 3.96 years 4.00 -0- 4.00
4.64 5,000 2.08 years 4.64 5,000 4.64
5.00 10,000 3.18 years 5.00 10,000 5.00
5.06 5,000 5.52 years 5.06 -0- 5.06
5.12 10,000 4.71 years 5.12 625 5.12
5.25 5,000 5.63 years 5.25 -0- 5.25
5.31 300,000 4.89 years 5.31 300,000 5.31
5.38 10,000 4.61 years 5.38 -0- 5.38
5.50 15,000 2.45 years 5.50 10,000 5.50
5.75 5,750 5.27 years 5.75 250 5.75
5.94 4,000 4.95 years 5.94 -0- 5.94
6.03 50,000 5.59 years 6.03 -0- 6.03
6.06 5,000 5.63 years 6.06 250 6.06
6.19 66,000 4.93 years 6.19 -0- 6.19
6.50 25,000 4.45 years 6.50 -0- 6.50
8.81 238,000 4.48 years 8.81 -0- 8.81
9.97 10,000 4.83 years 9.97 -0- 9.97
--------- ---------
4,082,874 3,617,749
========= =========
</TABLE>
F-34
<PAGE>
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 1999 AND 1998
NOTE 16 - FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
- ---------------------------------------------
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 107, Disclosures About Fair
Value of Financial Instruments' ("SFAS No. 107"), requires disclosure of the
fair value of financial instruments. The estimated fair value amounts have been
determined by the Company using available market value information and
appropriate methodologies. However, considerable judgement is required to
interpret market data to develop the estimates of fair value. Accordingly, the
estimates presented herein may not be indicative of the amounts the Company
could realize in a current market exchange. Estimated fair values of the
Company's financial instruments are as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1999 1998
---------------------------- ----------------------
Estimated Estimated
Carrying Fair Carrying Fair
Amount Value Amount Value
------------ ------------ --------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Assets:
Cash $ 10,617,403 $ 10,617,403 $ 198,410 $ 198,410
Accounts receivable 1,854,546 1,854,546 248,172 248,172
Notes receivable 125,000 125,000 - -
Investment in related party
stock 400,000 400,000 - -
Investment in LLC's 132 132 450,687 450,687
Capital leases (75,338) (75,338) (--) (--)
Notes payable (13,000) (13,000) (61,293) (61,293)
Convertible debt - - (140,000) (140,000)
</TABLE>
The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the fair value
of each class of financial instruments for which it is practicable to estimate
such values:
For cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, notes payable, capital
leases, and convertible debt, the carrying amount reported in the consolidated
balance sheets is considered to be a reasonable estimate of fair value based on
interest rates of similar financial instruments in the marketplace.
For investments in related party stock, fair values are based on quoted
market prices. If no market prices are available, fair values are based on the
book value of the stock, after considering the effect of related party
transactions on stockholders' equity.
For investments in LLC's, fair values are based on estimated fair values of
the underlying assets, most of which equal the carrying amount of the asset.
F-35
<PAGE>
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 1999 AND 1998
NOTE 17 - INCOME TAXES
- ----------------------
Deferred taxes result from temporary differences in the recognition of
certain revenue and expense items for income tax and financial reporting
purposes. The significant components of the Company's deferred taxes as of June
30, 1999 and 1998 are as follows:
1999 1998
----------- -----------
Deferred tax assets:
Net operating loss carryover $ 3,647,740 $ 2,682,959
Deferred revenue 1,059,322 401,679
Amortization of goodwill 118,812 73,150
Employee salaries issued in stock 30,172 20,580
Inventory valuation methods - 12,928
Allowance for bad debts 13,054 1,544
----------- -----------
4,869,100 3,192,840
Deferred tax liabilities:
Depreciation (30,931) (19,594)
----------- -----------
4,838,169 3,173,246
Less: Valuation allowance (4,838,169) (3,173,246)
----------- -----------
Net deferred taxes $ - $ -
=========== ===========
The increase in the valuation allowance was $1,664,923 and $966,091 for the
years ended June 30, 1999 and 1998, respectively.
The Company has available at June 30, 1999, $10,422,113 of unused operating
loss carryforwards that may be applied against future taxable income and that
expire in various years from 2008 to 2014.
The principal reasons for the difference between the effective income tax
rate and the federal statutory income tax rate are as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1999 1998
----------- ---------
<S> <C> <C>
Federal benefit expected at statutory rate $(1,694,701) $(978,441)
Operating losses with no current benefit 964,780 939,278
Taxable deferred revenue 657,642 (23,131)
Amortization of software costs 3,500 -
Depreciation (11,336) (12,778)
Goodwill 55,794 43,425
Employee salaries issued in stock 9,592 6,405
Inventory valuation methods (12,927) 12,927
Allowance for bad debts 11,509 -
Asset sales (13,666)
Non-deductible expenses 29,813 12,315
----------- ---------
$ - $ -
=========== =========
</TABLE>
F-36
<PAGE>
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 1999 AND 1998
NOTE 18 - RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
- ------------------------------------
Receivables from Related Parties
The Company has outstanding at June 30, 1999 and 1998, amounts due from
related parties as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1999 1998
-------- --------
<S> <C> <C>
Trade receivables due from related parties $153,138 $181,771
Notes receivable due from an officer 50,000 -
Notes receivable due from an employee 25,000 -
Note receivable due from a related entity 50,000 -
Advances due from employees 150 11,518
-------- --------
$278,288 $193,289
======== ========
</TABLE>
Payables to Related Parties
The Company had outstanding at June 30, 1999 and 1998, amounts due to
related parties as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1999 1998
-------- --------
<S> <C> <C>
Notes payable to related parties acquired in
acquisition of VLI $ - $ 31,595
Note payable to related party acquired in
the acquisition of Holloway Publications 13,000 -
-------- --------
$ 13,000 $ 31,595
======== ========
</TABLE>
During the years ended June 30, 1999 and 1998, the Company incurred $23,631
and $12,306 in related party interest expense.
Investments in Related Party Stock
During the fiscal year ended June 30, 1999, the Company accepted 100,000
shares of WebQuest International restricted common stock as consideration for
the sale of technology to the Company. WebQuest is a company related by common
shareholders. The revenue associated with the technology sale has been recorded
as deferred income until collectibility is assured.
F-37
<PAGE>
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 1999 AND 1998
NOTE 18 - RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS - Continued
- ------------------------------------------------
Investments in Related Party Stock - Continued
During the fiscal year ended June 30, 1998, the Company accepted the
settlement of an outstanding account receivable with WebQuest International
company related by common shareholders, in the amount of $700,000 by receipt of
700,000 shares of restricted common stock of WebQuest. At June 30, 1998, a
writedown to the estimated fair market value of the investment, expected to be
temporary in nature, was recorded for the entire amount of $700,000. The account
receivable was related to the license of technology to WebQuest, which had been
recorded as deferred revenue until collectibility is assured. During fiscal year
1999, a portion of the shares were sold for cash, thereby allowing the Company
to recognize as revenue a portion of the amount previously deferred.
Accounts Payable
Included in accounts payable as of June 30, 1999 are $14,074 of related
party payables.
Revenues
During the fiscal years ended June 30, 1999 and 1998, the Company received
revenues from related parties in the amounts of $501,355 and $215,297,
respectively.
Deferred Revenue
In accordance with Statements of Position 97-2 and 91-1, during the year
ended June 30, 1998, the Company deferred revenue received from WebQuest in the
amount of $700,000 for the license of technology due to collectibility issues.
Since the collectibility of this revenue relates to the 700,000 shares of
WebQuest restricted common stock that the Company accepted as payment on the
license fee, and the probability of the collection of cash from the ultimate
sale of the stock could not be determined as of June 30, 1998, the revenues
related to this sale are recognized on the basis of cash received. During the
year ended June 30, 1999, 400,000 of the 700,000 WebQuest shares were sold for
cash. Therefore, the Company recognized $400,000 in revenue, of the total
$700,000 in deferred revenue. In addition, during fiscal year 1999, the Company
received an additional 100,000 shares of WebQuest for the sale of certain
technology. The revenues from this sale have also been deferred until
collectibility is assured.
F-38
<PAGE>
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 1999 AND 1998
NOTE 19 - LIABILITIES SUBJECT TO COMPROMISE
- -------------------------------------------
Prior to the fiscal year ended June 30, 1998, the Company had an unsecured
trade creditor account payable in the amount of $46,750, which represented
advances of equipment received from a customer as part of a joint venture with
the Company. No request for payment or return of the equipment had been received
by the Company as of June 30, 1998. The reduction of this liability resulted in
an extraordinary gain of $46,750 for the year ended June 30, 1998.
NOTE 20 - YEAR 2000 ISSUES
- --------------------------
Because many computer systems and programs use only two digits to record the
year in date fields, such systems may not be able to accurately process dates
including the year 2000 and after. The effects of this problem will vary from
system to system and may result in a major system failure, or adversely affect a
company's operations as well as the ability to prepare financial statements.
In order to determine the impact that Year 2000 issues have on the Company,
(1) a complete assessment of all systems potentially affected by Year 2000
issues needs to be completed, and (2) management needs to determine the
consequences that its Year 2000 issues would have on its business, results of
operations, and financial condition. The Company's assessment of its Year 2000
issues includes addressing whether third parties with whom the Company has a
material relationship are Year 2000 compliant.
At the current time, the Company has conducted a comprehensive review of its
computer systems to identify the systems that could be affected by the Year 2000
issue and is developing an implementation plan to resolve the issue. In
addition, the Company is in the process of identifying all third parties with
whom the Company has a material relationship so that they may determine if such
parties are Year 2000 compliant. The Company presently believes that, with
modifications to existing software and conversion to new software, the Year 2000
problem will not pose significant operational problems for the Company's
computer systems as so modified and converted. However, if such modifications
and conversions are not completed timely, the Year 2000 may have a material
impact on the operations of the Company. Additionally, if the Company's
customers and vendors are unable to resolve such processing issues in a timely
manner, it could result in material financial risk.
F-39
<PAGE>
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 1999 AND 1998
NOTE 21 - SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
- ---------------------------
Equity Transaction
During July, 1999, a warrant holder exercised warrants that netted the
Company $178,500.
Acquisition
On July 13, 1999, the Company purchased certain assets of Real Estate
Technology Institute, Inc. ("RETI"), an Internet web site sales and production
company, for $40,000 and 28,000 shares of restricted common stock. Additionally,
the owner and operator of RETI has become an employee of the Company.
Employment Agreement
The Company hired a new Chairman and CEO who will begin employment on August
23, 1999. His employment agreement is for a term of three years and includes
cash compensation of $200,000 per year, a signing bonus of $40,000, and various
stock options.
F-40
AMENDED AND RESTATED BYLAWS
OF
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INCORPORATED
ARTICLE I - OFFICES
The principal office the Corporation shall be located in the City and
State designated as the registered office in the Articles of Incorporation. The
Corporation may also maintain offices at such other places within or without the
United States as the Board of Directors may, from time to time, determine.
ARTICLE II - MEETINGS OF SHAREHOLDERS
Section 1 - Annual Meetings:
The annual meeting of the Shareholders of the Corporation shall be held on a
date and at a time selected by the Board of Directors and at such place as
designated by the Board of Directors each year, for the purpose of electing
Directors of the Corporation to serve during the ensuing year and for the
transaction of such other business as may be brought before the meeting.
Section 2 - Notice of Annual Meetings:
At least ten (10) days written notice specifying the day and hour and place,
when and where the annual meeting shall be convened, shall be mailed in a United
States Post Office, addressed to each of the Shareholders of record at the time
of issuing the notice, at his or her or its address last known, as the same
appears on the books of the Corporation.
If the address of any Shareholder does not appear upon the books of the
Corporation, it will be sufficient to address any notice to such Shareholder at
the last address furnished by such Shareholder to the Secretary of the
Corporation.
Nevertheless, a failure to give such notice, or any irregularity in such notice,
shall not affect the validity of annual meetings or any proceedings had at such
meeting, and in such event these Bylaws shall be, and shall be deemed to be,
sufficient notice of such meeting without requirement of further notice.
Section 3 - Special meetings:
1
<PAGE>
Special meetings of the Shareholders may be held at the office of the
corporation in the State of Nevada, or elsewhere, whenever called by the
Chairman, or by a majority of the Board of Directors, or by vote of, or by an
instrument in writing signed by the holders of at least fifty-one percent (51%)
of the issued and outstanding capital stock of the Corporation.
Section 4 - Notice of Special Meetings:
At least ten (10) days written notice of such meeting, specifying the day and
hour and place, when and where such meeting Shall be convened, and the objects
for calling the same, shall be mailed in the United States Post office,
addressed to each of the Shareholders of record at the time of issuing the
notice, at his or her or its address last known, as the same appears on the
books of the Corporation.
If the address of any Shareholders do not appear upon the books of the
Corporation, it will be sufficient to address any notice to such Shareholder at
the last address furnished by such Shareholder to the Secretary of the
Corporation.
The written certificate of the officer or officers calling any special meeting
setting forth the substance of the notice, and the time and place of the mailing
of same to the several Shareholders, and the respective addresses to which the
same were to be mailed, shall be prima facie evidence of the manner and fact of
the calling and giving such notice.
Section 5 - Place of Meetings:
All meetings of Shareholders shall be held at the principal office of the
Corporation, or at such other places as shall be designated in the notices or
waivers of notice of such meetings.
Section 6 - Waiver of Notice:
If all the Shareholders of the Corporation shall waive notice of special
meetings, no notice of such meeting shall be required, and whenever all the
Shareholders shall meet in person or by proxy such meeting shall be valid for
all purposes without call or notice and at such meeting any corporate action may
be taken.
Section 7 - Quorum:
At all Shareholders' meetings, the holders of fifty-one percent (51%) in amount
of the entire issued and outstanding capital stock of the Corporation shall
constitute a quorum for all the purposes of such meetings.
2
<PAGE>
If the holders of the amount of stock necessary to constitute a quorum shall
fail to attend, in person or by proxy, at the time and place fixed by these
Bylaws for any annual meeting, or fixed by a notice as above provided for any
annual meeting, or fixed by a notice as above provided for a special meeting, a
majority in interest of the Shareholders present in person or by proxy may
adjourn from time to time without notice other than by announcement at the
meeting, until holders of the amount of stock requisite to constitute a quorum
shall attend. At any such adjourned meeting at which a quorum shall be present,
any business may be transacted which might have been transacted as originally
called.
Section 8 - Voting:
At each meeting of the Shareholders, every Shareholder shall be entitled to vote
in person or by his duly authorized proxy appointed by instrument in writing
subscribed by such Shareholder. Each Shareholder shall have one (1) vote for
each share of stock standing registered in his or her or its name on the books
of the Corporation, ten (10) days preceding the day of such meeting. The votes
for Directors, and upon demand by any Shareholder, the votes upon any question
before the meeting, shall be by roll call vote.
At each meeting of the Shareholders a full, true and complete list, in
alphabetical order, of all the Shareholders entitled to vote at such meeting,
and indicating the number of shares held by each, certified by the secretary of
the Corporation, shall be furnished, which list shall be prepared at least ten
(10) days before such meeting, and shall be open to the inspection of the
shareholders, or their agent or proxies, at the place where such meeting is to
be held, and for ten (10) days prior thereto. Only the persons in whose names
shares of stock are registered on the meeting, as evidenced by the list of
Shareholders so furnished, shall be entitled to vote at such meeting. Proxies
and powers of attorney to vote must be filed with the Secretary of the
Corporation before an election or a meeting of the Shareholders, or they cannot
be used at such election or meeting.
Section 9 - Order of Business:
At the Shareholders' meetings, the regular order of business shall be as
follows.
1. Reading, and approval of the Minutes of previous meeting or meetings;
2. Reports of yearly activity to Shareholders, to be prepared and provided
by the Board of Directors;
3. Election of Directors;
4. Financial review;
5. Appointment of auditors;
3
<PAGE>
6. Unfinished business;
7. New business;
8. Adjournment.
Section 10 - Conduct of Election:
At each meeting of the Shareholders, the polls shall be opened and closed: the
proxies and ballots issued, received, and be taken in charge of, for the purpose
of the meeting; and all questions touching the qualifications of voters and the
validity of proxies, and the acceptance or rejection of votes, shall be decided
by two (2) inspectors. Such inspectors shall be appointed at the meeting by the
presiding officer of the meeting.
ARTICLE III - BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Section 1 - Number:
The number of Directors which shall constitute the whole board shall be nine (9)
all of whom shall be of full age and at least one (1) of whom shall be a citizen
of the United States. The number of Directors may from time to time be decreased
to not less than one (1) or increased by amending this section of the Bylaws.
The Directors shall be elected at the annual meeting of the Shareholders and
except as provided in Section 2 of this Article, each Director elected shall
hold office until his successor is elected and qualified. Directors need not be
Shareholders.
Section 2 - Classification And Elections
The Directors shall be classified with respect to the time for which they
severalty hold office, into two classes, as nearly equal in number as possible
as the then total number of Directors constituting the entire board permits,
pursuant to the provisions of Section 1 hereof. At each annual meeting of the
Shareholders, the successors to the class of Directors whose term expires at
that meeting shall be elected, by a plurality of the votes cast, to hold office
for a term expiring at the annual meeting of the Shareholders held in the second
year following the year of their election and until their successors have been
duly elected and qualified. Any Director may resign at any time upon notice to
the Corporation. Directors need not be Shareholders.
Section 3 - Classification of Board of Directors.
The five (5) members of the initial Board of Directors is classified as follows:
4
<PAGE>
(a) The first class shall be composed of one (1) Director and shall
hold office for a term expiring at the 1995 annual meeting of Shareholders, Dr.
Jack Kelly and Douglas Swanson shall be the initial directors in this class of
directors;
(b) The second class shall be composed of three (3) Directors and shall
hold office for a term expiring at the 1996 Annual meeting of Shareholders.
William Tomerlin, Greg Johnson and Lester Lorentzen shall be the initial
directors in this class of directors;
Each successor to any of the foregoing Directors shall be classified within his
predecessor's class of Directors. The Directors determined, at the first meeting
of the Board of Directors, the class to which each Director shall belong.
Section 4 - Duties and Powers
The Board of Directors is invested with the complete and unrestrained authority
in the management of all the affairs of the Corporation, and is authorized to
exercise for such purpose as the General Agent of the Corporation, its entire
corporate authority.
The Board of Directors shall be responsible for the control and management of
the affairs, property and interests of the Corporation, and may exercise all
powers of the Corporation, except as are in the Certificate of Incorporation by
statute expressly conferred upon or reserved to the Shareholders.
The Chairman of the Board of Directors shall make a report to the shareholders
at annual meetings of the Shareholders of the condition of the Corporation, and
shall, on request, furnish each of the Shareholders with a true copy thereof.
The Board of Directors, in its discretion, may submit any contract or act for
approval or ratification at any annual meeting of the Shareholders called for
the purpose of considering any such contract or act, which, if approved, or
ratified by the vote of the holders of a majority of the capital stock of the
corporation represented in person or by proxy at such meeting, provided that a
lawful quorum of Shareholders be there represented in person or by proxy, shall
be valid and binding upon the Corporation and upon all the Shareholders thereof,
as if it has been approved or ratified by every Shareholder of the Corporation.
Section 5 - Place of Meetings:
Meetings of the Directors may be held at the principal office of the Corporation
in the State of Nevada, or elsewhere, at such place or places as the Board of
Directors may, from time to time determine.
5
<PAGE>
Section 6 - Annual Meeting of Directors; Notice;
Immediately following each annual meeting of Shareholders, the Board of
Directors shall hold a regular meeting for the purpose of organization, election
of officers, and the transaction of other business. Notice of such meeting is
hereby dispense with.
Section 7 - Regular Meetings of Directors; Notice;
The time for other regular meetings of the Board of Directors, if and when held,
shall be as determined by the Board of Directors. If any regular meeting date
shall fall on a legal holiday, then the regular meeting date shall be the
business day next following. The time for the next regularly scheduled meeting
of the Board of Directors may be changed by a majority vote of the Directors at
any preceding meeting of the Directors.
No notice shall be required to be given of any regular meeting of the Board of
Directors, but each Director shall take notice thereof.
Section 8 - Special Meeting of Directors; Notice:
A special meeting of the Board of Directors shall be held whenever called by the
Chairman or by two (2) Directors. Any and all business may be transacted at a
special meeting. Each call for a special meeting shall be in writing, signed by
the person or persons making the same, addressed and delivered to the Secretary,
and shall state the time and place of such meeting,
Notice of each special meeting of the Board of Directors shall be given to each
of the Directors by mailing to each of them a copy of such notice at least seven
(7) days prior to the time fixed for such meeting to the address of such
Director as shown on the books of the Corporation. If his address does not
appear on the books of the Corporation, then such notice shall be addressed to
him at HomeSeekers.com, Incorporated, 2241 Park Place, Suite E, Minden, Nevada
89423.
Section 9 - Waiver of Notice:
When all the Directors of the Corporation are present at any meeting of the
Board of Directors, however called or noticed, and sign a written consent
thereto on the record of such meeting, or if the majority of the Directors are
present, and if those not present sign in writing a waiver of notice of such
meeting, whether prior to or after the holder of such meeting, which said waiver
shall be filed with the Secretary of the Corporation, the transactions of such
meeting are as valid as if had at a meeting regularly called and noticed.
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Section 10 - Quorum and Adjournments:
A majority of the Board of Directors in office shall constitute a quorum for the
transaction of business; but if at any meeting of the Board there be less than a
quorum present, a majority of those present may adjourn from time to time, until
a quorum shall be present, and no notice of such adjournment shall be required.
The Board of Directors may prescribe rules not in conflict with these Bylaws for
the conduct of its business.
Section 11 - Manner of Acting:
(a) At all meetings of the Board of Directors, each Director present
shall have one (1) vote, irrespective of the number of shares of stock, if any,
which he may hold.
(b) Except as otherwise provided by statute, by the Certificate of
incorporation, or by these Bylaws, the action of a majority of the Directors,
present at any meeting at which a quorum is present shall be the act of the
Board of Directors. Any action authorized, in writing, by all of the Directors
entitled to vote thereon and filed with the Minutes of the Corporation shall be
the act of the Board of Directors with the same force and effect as if the same
had been passed by unanimous vote at a duly called meeting of the board.
Section 12 - Action by Unanimous Written Consent of Directors:
Any action required or permitted to be taken by the Board of Directors may be
taken without a meeting if all members of the Board shall individually or
collectively consent in writing to such action. Such written consent or consents
shall be filed with the Minutes of the proceedings of the Board, and such action
by written consent shall have the same force and effect as a unanimous vote of
such Directors. Any certificate or other document which relates to action so
taken shall state that the action was taken by unanimous written consent of the
Board of Directors without a meeting, and that these Bylaws authorize the
Directors to so act.
Section 13 - Order of Business:
The regular order of business at meetings of the Board of Directors shall be as
follows:
1. Roll call of Directors.
2. Approval of agenda.
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3. Approval of the Minutes of the prior Director's meeting and action on
any recommendations of any standing committee.
4. Report by the Treasurer on financial condition of the Corporation and
financial operating results since the last meeting.
5. Report by the President on operating results.
6. General counsel report.
7. Other items requiring Board action, including any committee reports.
8. Reports by selected members of management as requested by the chairman
of the Board.
9. Special report on operating or financial data requested by Directors.
10. Old business.
11. New business.
12. Open discussion.
13. Adjournment.
Section 14 - Telephonic meetings:
Nothing herein contained shall prevent or render void any action taken by the
Board of Directors through the use of telephones, telegraphs, computers, word
processing machines or other electronic devices so long as such action is
otherwise consistent with these Bylaws.
Section 15 - Vacancies:
When any vacancy occurs among the Directors by death, resignation,
disqualification or other cause, the Shareholders, at any regular or special
meeting, or at any adjourned meeting thereof, or the remaining Directors, by the
affirmative vote of a majority thereof, shall elect a successor to hold office
for the unexpired portion of the term of the Director whose place shall have
become vacant and until his successor shall have been elected and shall qualify.
Section 16 - Resignation:
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Any Director may resign at any time by giving written notice to the Board of
Directors, the President or the Secretary of the Corporation. Unless otherwise
specified in such written notice, such resignation shall take effect upon
receipt thereof by the Board of Directors or such officer, and the acceptance of
such resignation shall not be necessary to make it effective
Section 17 - Removal
Any Director may be removed with or without case at any time by the affirmative
vote of Shareholders holding of record in the aggregate at least a majority of
the outstanding shares of the Corporation at a special meeting of the
Shareholders called for that purpose, and may be removed for cause by action of
the Board.
Section 18 - Contracts:
(a) No contract or other transaction between this Corporation and any
other Corporation shall be impaired, affected or invalidated, nor shall any
Director be liable in any way by reason of the fact that any one or more of the
Directors of this Corporation is or are interested in or is a director or
officer, or are directors or officers of such other Corporation provided that
such facts are disclosed or made known to the Board of Directors.
(b) Any Director, personally and individually, may be a party to or may
be interested in any contract or transaction of this Corporation, and no
Director shall be liable in any way by reason of such interest, provided that
the fact of such interest be disclosed or made known to the Board of Directors,
and provided that the Board of Directors shall authorize, approve or ratify such
contract or transaction by the vote (not counting the vote of any such Director)
of a majority of a quorum, notwithstanding the presence of any such Director at
the meeting at which such action is taken. Such Director or Directors may be
counted in determining the presence of a quorum at such meeting. This Section
shall not be construed to impair or invalidate or in any way affect any contract
or other transaction which would otherwise be valid under the law (common,
statutory or otherwise) applicable thereto.
(c) No agreement, contract, franchise, lease or obligation (other than
checks in payment of indebtedness incurred by authority of the Board of
Directors) involving the payment of monies or the credit of the Corporation in
excess of that level established by the Board of Directors, shall be made
without the authority of the Board of Director duly constituted and acting as
such.
(d) Unless otherwise ordered by the Board of Directors, all agreements
and contracts shall be signed by the President, Secretary or the Chairman of the
Board of Directors in the name and on behalf of the Corporation, and if
required, shall have the corporate seal thereto attached.
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(e) No note, draft, acceptance, endorsement or other evidence of
indebtedness shall be valid as or against the Corporation unless the same shall
be signed by the President and attested by the Secretary or an Assistant
Secretary, or signed by the Treasurer or an Assistant Treasurer, and
countersigned by the President, or Secretary, or by the Chairman of the Board of
Directors and attested by the Secretary or Assistant Secretary except that the
Treasurer or an Assistant Treasurer may, without countersignature, sign payroll
checks and make endorsements for deposit to the credit of the Corporation in all
its duly authorized depositories. No check or order for money shall be signed in
blank by more than one officer of the Corporation.
(f) No loan or advance of money shall be made by the Corporation to any
shareholder, Director or Officer therein, unless the Board of Directors shall
otherwise authorize.
Section 19 - Encumbering or Conveying Corporate Property:
The Directors shall have power to authorize and cause to be executed, mortgages
and liens without limit as to amount upon the property and franchise of this
Corporation, and pursuant to the affirmative vote, either in person or by proxy,
of the holders of a majority of the capital stock issued and outstanding; the
Directors shall have authority to dispose in any manner of the whole property of
this Corporation.
Section 20 - Committees:
The Board of Directors may, by resolution adopted by a majority of the whole
Board, designate one (1) or more standing committees of the Board of Directors.
Each committee shall consist of a Chairperson and another member. All actions of
the committees shall nevertheless require full Board of Directors' action at the
next succeeding meeting of the full Board of Directors unless specifically
provided for to the contrary.
Section 21 - Salaries:
Th. Directors may be paid their expenses of attendance of each meeting of the
Board of Directors and at any standing committee meeting of the Board f
Directors, and shall be paid a fixed sum for attendance at each meeting of the
Board of Directors and each standing committee of the Board of Directors and a
stated retainer as Director. No such payment shall preclude any Director from
serving the Corporation in any other capacity and receiving compensation
therefor. Members of special or standing committees may be allowed like
reimbursement and compensation for attending committee meetings. Compensation
shall not be paid to members of ad hoc committees.
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ARTICLE IV - OFFICERS
Section 1 - Number:
The Officers of the Corporation shall consist of a President, a Secretary, a
Treasurer, and such other Officers as the Board of Directors may from time to
time deem advisable. Any two (2) or more offices may be held by the same person.
Section 2 - Election:
The Board of Directors at its first meeting after the annual meeting of
Shareholders, shall elect a President, a Secretary and a Treasurer, to hold
office for one (1) year next coming, and until their successors are elected and
qualify. The Treasurer and Secretary need not be Directors; the offices of the
Secretary and Treasurer may be held by one person.
The Board of Directors may from time to time, by resolution, appoint Vice
Presidents and additional Assistant Secretaries, Assistant Treasurers and
Transfer Agents of the Corporation as it may deem advisable; prescribe their
duties and fix their compensation, and all such appointed officers shall be
subject to removal at anytime by the Board of Directors. All officers, agents
and factors of the Corporation shall be chosen and appointed in such manner and
shall hold their offices for such terms as the Board of Directors may by
resolution prescribe.
Section 3 - Term of Office:
Each Officer shall hold office until the annual meeting of the Board of
Directors next succeeding his election, and until his successor shall have been
elected and qualified, or until his death, resignation or removal.
Section 4 - Resignation:
Any officer may resign at any time by giving written notice of such resignation
to the Board of Directors, or to the President or the Secretary of the
Corporation. Unless otherwise specified in such written notice, such resignation
shall take effect upon receipt thereof by the Board of Directors or by such
officer, and the acceptance of such resignation shall not be necessary to make
it effective.
Section 5 - Removal:
Any officer may be removed, either with or without cause, and a successor
elected by a majority vote of the Board of Directors at any time.
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Section 6 - Vacancies:
A vacancy in any office by reason of death, resignation, inability to act,
disqualification. or any other cause, may at any time be filled for the
unexpired portion of the term by a majority vote of the Board of Directors.
Section 7 - Duties of Officers:
Officers of the Corporation shall, unless otherwise provided by the Board of
Directors, each have such powers and duties as generally pertain to their
respective offices as well as such powers and duties as may be set forth in
these Bylaws, or may from time to time be specifically conferred or imposed by
the Board of Directors. The President shall be the Chief Executive Officer of
the Corporation.
Section 8 - Chairman of the Board:
The Chairman of the Board of Directors shall be responsible for scheduling all
Board of Directors meetings, annual Shareholder meetings, Board of Directors
retreats and other activities pertaining to the Board Of Directors. He shall
also insure that meeting agendas cover all matters of importance to the Board
and be responsible for making all arrangements for meetings, to include proper
notice as provided for herein. The Chairman of the Board of Directors shall also
insure that the agenda of meetings is followed and be responsible for
communication between the Board of Directors and management, during the period
between meetings of the Board. The Chairman shall also serve a member of each
committee of the Board of Directors and attend such committee meetings in
addition to monitoring the performance of the Board of Directors as a collective
body and as individual members and shall further be responsible for strategic
and financial planning and shall otherwise insure the setting and maintaining of
policies and procedures adopted by the Board of Directors.
Section 9 - The President as Chief Executive Officer:
The President/Chief Executive Officer of the Corporation shall have the
supervision and, subject to the control of the Board of Directors, the direction
of the Corporation's affairs, with full power to execute all resolutions and
orders of the Board of Directors not especially entrusted to some other officer
of the Corporation. He shall sign the Certificates of Stock issued by the
corporation, shall conduct meetings in the absence of the Chairman, and shall
perform such other duties as shall be prescribed by the Board of Directors.
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Unless otherwise ordered by the Board of Directors, the President as Chief
Executive Officer shall have full power and authority on behalf of the
Corporation, to attend and to act and to vote at any meetings of the
Shareholders of any Corporation in which the Corporation may hold stock, and at
any such meetings, shall possess and may exercise any and all rights and powers
incident to the ownership of such stock, and which as the new owner thereof, the
Corporation might have possessed and exercised if present. The Board of
Directors may, by resolution, from time to time, confer like powers on any
person or persons in place of the President as Chief Executive Officer to
represent the Corporation for the purposes in this Section mentioned.
Section 10 - The Treasurer:
The Treasurer shall have the custody of all the funds and securities of the
Corporation. When necessary or proper, he shall endorse on behalf of the
Corporation for collection, checks, notes, and other obligations; he shall
deposit all monies to the credit of the Corporation in such bank or banks or
other depositary as the Board of Directors may designate; he shall sign all
receipts and vouchers for payments made by the Corporation except as herein
otherwise provided; he shall jointly with such other officer as shall be
designated by those Bylaws, sign all checks made by the Corporation, and shall
pay out and dispose of the same under the direction of the Board of Directors.
He shall sign with the President all bills of exchange and promissory notes of
the Corporation; he shall also have the care and custody of the stocks, bonds,
certificates, vouchers, evidences of debt securities, and such other property
belonging to the Corporation as the Board of Directors shall designate; he shall
sign all papers required by law or these bylaws or the Board of Directors to be
signed by the Treasurer. Whenever required by the Board of Directors, he shall
perform all acts incident to the position of Treasurer subject to the control of
the Board of Directors.
The Treasurer shall, if required by the Board of Directors, give bond to the
Corporation conditioned for the faithful performance of all his duties as
Treasurer in such sum and with such security as shall be approved by the Board
of Directors, and the expense of such bond to be borne by the Corporation.
Section 11 - The Secretary:
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The Secretary shall keep the Minutes of all meetings of the Board of Directors
and the Minutes of all meetings of the Shareholders and of the Executive
Committee in books provided for that purpose. The Secretary shall attend to the
giving and serving of all notices of the Corporation; he/she may sign with the
President or a Vice President, in the name of the Corporation, all contracts
authorized by the Board of Directors or Executive Committee; the Secretary shall
affix the corporate seal of the Corporation to any documents when authorized by
the Board f Directors or Executive Committee; he/she shall affix the corporate
seal to all certificates of stock duly issued by the Corporation; he/she shall
have charge of the Stock Certificate Books, Transfer Books and Stock Ledgers,
and such other books and papers as the Board of Directors or the Executive
Committee may direct, all of which shall at all reasonable time be open to the
examination of any Director(s) upon application at the office of the Corporation
during business hours, and he/she shall, in general, perform all the duties
incident to the office of the Secretary.
Section 12 - The Other Officers:
The Board of Directors may appoint other officers who shall have such powers and
perform such duties as may be prescribed for him/her by the Board of Directors.
ARTICLE V - SHARES OF STOCK
Section 1 - Certificates of Stock:
Ownership of stock in the Corporation shall be evidenced by certificates of
stock in such forms as shall be prescribed by the Board of Directors. and shall
be under the seal of the Corporation and signed by the President and also by the
Secretary or by an Assistant Secretary.
All certificates shall be consecutively numbered; the name of the person owning
the shares represented thereby with the number of such shares and the date of
issue shall be entered on the Corporation's books.
No certificate shall be valid unless it is signed by the President and by the
Secretary or Assistant Secretary.
All certificates surrendered to the Corporation shall be canceled and no new
certificate shall be issued until the former certificate for the same number of
shares shall have been surrendered or canceled.
Section 2 - Issuance:
The capital stock of the Corporation shall be issued in such manner and at such
times and upon such conditions as shall be prescribed by the Board of Directors.
Section 3 - Lost or Destroyed Certificates:
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Any person or persons applying for a certificate of stock in lieu of one alleged
to have been lost or destroyed, shall make affidavit or affirmation of the fact,
and shall deposit with the Corporation an affidavit. Whereupon, at the and of
six (6) months after the deposit of said affidavit and upon such person or
persons giving Bond of Indemnity to the Corporation with surety to be approved
by the Board of Directors in double the current value of the stock against any
loss, or inconvenience to the corporation, which may or can arise in consequence
of a new or duplicate certificate being issued in lieu of the one lost or
missing, the Board of Directors may cause to be issued to such person or persons
a new certificate, or a duplicate of the certificate so lost or destroyed. The
Board of Directors may, in its discretion, refuse to issue such new or duplicate
certificate save upon the order of some court having jurisdiction in such
matter, anything herein to the contrary notwithstanding.
Section 4 - Transfer of Shares:
No transfer of stock shall be valid as against the corporation except on
surrender and cancellation of the certificate therefor, accompanied by an
assignment or transfer by the owner therefor, made either in person or under
assignment, a new certificate shall be issued therefor.
Whenever any transfer shall be expressed as made for collateral security and not
absolutely, the same shall be so expressed in the entry of said transfer on the
books of the Corporation.
Section 5 - Record Date:
In lieu of closing the share records of the Corporation, the Board of Director.
may fix, in advance, a date not exceeding fifty (50) days, nor less than ten
(10) days, as the record date for the determination of Shareholders entitled to
receive notice of, or to vote at, any meeting of Shareholders, or to consent to
any proposal without a meeting, or for the purpose of determining Shareholders
entitled to receive payment of any dividends, or allotment of any rights, or for
the purpose of any other action. If no record date is fixed, the record date for
the determination of Shareholders entitled to notice of or to vote at a meeting
of Shareholders shall be at the close of business on the day next preceding the
day on which notice is given. Or, if no notice is given, the day on which the
meeting is held; the record date for determining Shareholders for any other
purpose, shall be at the close of business on the day on which the resolution of
the Directors relating thereto is adopted. When a determination of Shareholders
of record entitled to notice of or to vote at any meeting of Shareholders has
been made as provided for herein, such determination shall apply to any
adjournment thereof, unless the Directors fix a now record date for the
adjourned meeting.
ARTICLE VI - DIVIDENDS
The Board of Directors shall have power to reserve over and above the capital
stock paid in, such an amount in its discretion as it may deem advisable to fix
as a reserve fund, and may, from time to time, declare dividends from the
accumulated profits of the Corporation in excess of the amounts so reserved, and
may the same to the Shareholders of the Corporation. and may also, if it deems
be advisable, declare stock dividends of the unissued capital stock of the
corporation.
ARTICLE VII - AMENDMENTS
Section 1 - By Shareholders:
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Amendments and changes of these Amended and Restated Bylaws may be made by a
vote of, or a consent in writing signed individually or collectively by the
holders of fifty-one percent (51%) of the issued and outstanding capital stock.
Section 2 - By Directors:
Amendments and changes of these Bylaws may be made at any regular or special
meeting of the Board of Directors by a vote of nor less than all of the entire
Board, or may be made by a consent in writing signed individually or
collectively by the not less than all of the entire Board.
ARTICLE VIII - CORPORATE SEAL
The Corporation shall have a corporate seal, the design thereof being as
follows:
ARTICLE IX - INDEMNIFICATION
Every person who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to or is
involved in any action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal,
administrative or investigative, by reason of the fact that he or a person of
whom he is the legal representative is or was a director or officer of the
Corporation or is or was serving at the request of the Corporation or for its
benefit as a director or officer of another corporation, or as its
representative in a partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise, shall
be indemnified and held harmless to the fullest extent legally permissible under
the General Corporation Law of the State of Nevada from time to time against all
expenses, liability and loss (including attorneys' fees, judgments, fines, and
amounts paid or to be paid in settlement reasonably incurred or suffered by him
in connection therewith. Such right of indemnification shall be a contract right
which may be enforced in any manner desired by such person. Such right of
indemnification shall not be exclusive of any other right which such directors,
officers or representatives may have or hereafter acquire and, without limiting
the generality of such statement, they shall be entitled to their respective
rights of indemnification under any by-law, agreement, vote of Shareholders,
provision of law or otherwise, as well as their rights under this Article.
The Board of Directors may cause the Corporation to purchase and maintain
insurance on behalf of any person who is or was a director or officer of the
corporation, or is or was serving at the request of the Corporation as a
director or officer of another corporation, or as its representative in a
partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise against any liability
asserted against such person and incurred in any such capacity or arising out of
such status, whether or not the Corporation would have the power to indemnify
such person.
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The indemnification provisions above provided shall include, but not be limited
to, reimbursement of all fees, including amounts paid in settlement and
attorneys' fees actually and reasonably incurred, in connection with the defense
or settlement of any action or suit if such party to be indemnified acted in
good faith and in a manner reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the
best interests of the Corporation. Indemnification may not be made for any claim
issue or matter as to which the person claiming indemnity has been adjudged by a
court of competent jurisdiction, after exhaustion of all appeals therefrom to be
liable to the Corporation or for amounts paid in settlement to the Corporation
unless and only to the extent that the court in which the action or suit was
brought or other court of competent jurisdiction determines upon application
that the person is fairly and reasonably entitled to indemnity for such expenses
as the court deems proper.
ARTICLE X - GENERAL PROVISIONS
Section 1 - Depositories:
All monies of the Corporation shall be deposited when as received by the
Treasurer in such bank or banks or other depositary as may from time to time be
designated by the Board of Directors, and such deposits shall be made in the
name of the Corporation.
Section 2 - Other Securities:
The Corporation may take, acquire, hold, mortgage, sell, or otherwise deal in
stocks or bonds or securities of any other corporation, if and as often as the
Board of Directors.
ADOPTED BY THE CORPORATION on March 15, 1999.
/s/ Greg Johnson
----------------
Greg Johnson, Secretary
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WRITTEN CONSENT OF DIRECTORS
OF
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INCORPORATED
The undersigned, being all of the directors of the corporation, do
hereby adopt, in accordance with Section 2 of Article VII of the Bylaws
of the corporation, the following resolutions:
RESOLVED: That the Revised Bylaws of the corporation are hereby amended
and restated in the form attached hereto as Exhibit "A".
RESOLVED: That the corporation's 1996 Stock Option Plan shall be
amended in the form attached hereto as Exhibit "B".
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned have set their hands this 15th day
of March, 1999.
/s/ Greg Johnson
- ----------------------
Greg Johnson, Director
/s/ Douglas Swanson
- -------------------------
Douglas Swanson, Director
/s/ John Giaimo
- -------------------------
John Giaimo, Director
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INCORPORATED
AMENDED AND RESTATED
1996 STOCK OPTION PLAN
1. Grant of Options; Generally. In accordance with the provisions
hereinafter set forth in this stock option plan, the name of which is the
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INCORPORATED AMENDED AND RESTATED 1996 STOCK OPTION PLAN (the
"Plan"), the Board of Directors (the "Board") or, the Compensation Committee
(the "Stock Option Committee") of HOMESEEKERS.COM, INCORPORATED (the
"Corporation") is hereby authorized to issue from time to time on the
Corporation's behalf to any one or more Eligible Persons, as hereinafter
defined, options to acquire shares of the Corporation's $.001 par value common
stock (the "Stock").
2. Type of Options. The Board or the Stock Option Committee is
authorized to issue options which meet the requirements of Section 422 of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"), which options are
hereinafter referred to collectively as ISOs, or singularly as an ISO. The Board
or the Stock Option Committee is also, in its discretion, authorized to issue
options which are not ISOs, which options are hereinafter referred to
collectively as NSOs, or singularly as an NSO. The Board or the Stock Option
Committee is also authorized, but not obligated, to issue "Reload Options" in
accordance with Paragraph 8 herein, which options are hereinafter referred to
collectively as Reload Options, or singularly as a Reload Option. Except where
the context indicates to the contrary, the term "Option" or "Options" means
ISOs, NSOs and Reload Options.
3. Amount of Stock. The aggregate number of shares of Stock which may
be purchased pursuant to the exercise of Options shall be 5,500,000 shares. Of
this amount, the Board or the Stock Option Committee shall have the power and
authority to designate whether any Options so issued shall be ISOs or NSOs,
subject to the restrictions on ISOs contained elsewhere herein. If an Option
ceases to be exercisable, in whole or in part, the shares of Stock underlying
such Option shall continue to be available under this Plan. Further, if shares
of Stock are delivered to the Corporation as payment for shares of Stock
purchased by the exercise of an Option granted under this Plan, such shares of
Stock shall also be available under this Plan. If there is any change in the
number of shares of Stock on account of the declaration of stock dividends,
recapitalization resulting in stock split-ups, or combinations or exchanges of
shares of Stock, or otherwise, the number of shares of Stock available for
purchase upon the exercise of Options, the shares of Stock subject to any Option
and the exercise price of any outstanding Option shall be appropriately adjusted
by the Board or the Stock Option Committee. The Board or the Stock Option
Committee shall give notice of any adjustments to each Eligible Person granted
an Option under this Plan, and such adjustments shall be effective and binding
on all Eligible Persons. If because of one or more re-capitalizations,
reorganizations or other corporate events, the holders of outstanding Stock
receive something other than shares of Stock then, upon exercise of an Option,
the Eligible Person will receive what the holder would have owned if the holder
had exercised the Option immediately before the first such corporate event and
not disposed of anything the holder received as a result of the corporate event.
4. Eligible Persons.
(a) With respect to ISOs, an Eligible Person means any
individual who has been employed by the Corporation or by any subsidiary of the
Corporation, for a continuous period of at least sixty (60) days.
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(b) With respect to NSOs, an Eligible Person means (i) any
individual who has been employed by the Corporation or by any subsidiary of the
Corporation, for a continuous period of at least sixty (60) days, (ii) any
director of the Corporation or any subsidiary of the Corporation, (iii) any
member of the Corporation's advisory board member or of any of the Corporation's
subsidiar(ies), or (iv) any consultant of the Corporation or by any subsidiary
of the Corporation.
5. Grant of Options. The Board or the Stock Option Committee has the
right to issue the Options established by this Plan to Eligible Persons. The
Board or the Stock Option Committee shall follow the procedures prescribed for
it elsewhere in this Plan. A grant of Options shall be set forth in a writing
signed on behalf of the Corporation or by a majority of the members of the Stock
Option Committee. The writing shall identify whether the Option being granted is
an ISO or an NSO and shall set forth the terms which govern the Option. The
terms shall be determined by the Board or the Stock Option Committee, and may
include, among other terms, the number of shares of Stock that may be acquired
pursuant to the exercise of the Options, when the Options may be exercised, the
period for which the Option is granted and including the expiration date, the
effect on the Options if the Eligible Person terminates employment and whether
the Eligible Person may deliver shares of Stock to pay for the shares of Stock
to be purchased by the exercise of the Option. However, no term shall be set
forth in the writing which is inconsistent with any of the terms of this Plan.
The terms of an Option granted to an Eligible Person may differ from the terms
of an Option granted to another Eligible Person, and may differ from the terms
of an earlier Option granted to the same Eligible Person.
6. Option Price. The Option price per share shall be determined by the
Board or the Stock Option Committee at the time any Option is granted, and shall
be not less than (i) in the case of an ISO, the fair market value, (ii) in the
case of an ISO granted to a ten percent or greater stockholder, 110% of the fair
market value, or (iii) in the case of an NSO, not less than 75% of the fair
market value (but in no event less than the par value) of one share of Stock on
the date the Option is granted, as determined by the Board or the Stock Option
Committee. Fair market value as used herein shall be:
(a) If shares of Stock shall be traded on an exchange or
over-the-counter market, the closing price or the closing bid price of such
Stock on such exchange or over-the-counter market on which such shares shall be
traded on that date, or if such exchange or over-the-counter market is closed or
if no shares shall have traded on such date, on the last preceding date on which
such shares shall have traded.
(b) If shares of Stock shall not be traded on an exchange or
over-the-counter market, the value as determined by the Board of Directors or
the Stock Option Committee of the Corporation.
7. Purchase of Shares. An Option shall be exercised by the tender to
the Corporation of the full purchase price of the Stock with respect to which
the Option is exercised and written notice of the exercise. The purchase price
of the Stock shall be in United States dollars, payable in cash or by check, or
in property or Corporation stock, if so permitted by the Board or the Stock
Option Committee in accordance with the discretion granted in Paragraph 5
hereof, having a value equal to such purchase price. The Corporation shall not
be required to issue or deliver any certificates for shares of Stock purchased
upon the exercise of an Option prior to (i) if requested by the Corporation, the
filing with the Corporation by the Eligible Person of a representation in
writing that it is the Eligible Person's then present intention to acquire the
Stock being purchased for investment and not for resale, and/or (ii) the
completion of any registration or other qualification of such shares under any
government regulatory body, which the Corporation shall determine to be
necessary or advisable.
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8. Grant of Reload Options. In granting an Option under this Plan, the
Board or the Stock Option Committee may, but shall not be obligated to include,
a Reload Option provision therein, subject to the provisions set forth in
Paragraphs 20 and 21 herein. A Reload Option provision provides that if the
Eligible Person pays the exercise price of shares of Stock to be purchased by
the exercise of an ISO, NSO or another Reload Option (the "Original Option") by
delivering to the Corporation shares of Stock already owned by the Eligible
Person (the "Tendered Shares"), the Eligible Person shall receive a Reload
Option which shall be a new Option to purchase shares of Stock equal in number
to the tendered shares. The terms of any Reload Option shall be determined by
the Board or the Stock Option Committee consistent with the provisions of this
Plan.
9. Stock Option Committee. The Stock Option Committee may be appointed
from time to time by the Corporation's Board of Directors. The Board may from
time to time remove members from or add members to the Stock Option Committee.
The Stock Option Committee shall be constituted so as to permit the Plan to
comply in all respects with the provisions set forth in Paragraph 20 herein. The
members of the Stock Option Committee may elect one of its members as its
chairman. The Stock Option Committee shall hold its meetings at such times and
places as its chairman shall determine. A majority of the Stock Option
Committee's members present in person shall constitute a quorum for the
transaction of business. All determinations of the Stock Option Committee will
be made by the majority vote of the members constituting the quorum. The members
may participate in a meeting of the Stock Option Committee by conference
telephone or similar communications equipment by means of which all members
participating in the meeting can hear each other. Participation in a meeting in
that manner will constitute presence in person at the meeting. Any decision or
determination reduced to writing and signed by all members of the Stock Option
Committee will be effective as if it had been made by a majority vote of all
members of the Stock Option Committee at a meeting which is duly called and
held.
10. Administration of Plan. In addition to granting Options and to
exercising the authority granted to it elsewhere in this Plan, the Board or the
Stock Option Committee is granted the full right and authority to interpret and
construe the provisions of this Plan, promulgate, amend and rescind rules and
procedures relating to the implementation of the Plan and to make all other
determinations necessary or advisable for the administration of the Plan,
consistent, however, with the intent of the Corporation that Options granted or
awarded pursuant to the Plan comply with the provisions of Paragraph 20 and 21
herein. All determinations made by the Board or the Stock Option Committee shall
be final, binding and conclusive on all persons including the Eligible Person,
the Corporation and its stockholders, employees, officers and directors and
consultants. No member of the Board or the Stock Option Committee will be liable
for any act or omission in connection with the administration of this Plan
unless it is attributable to that member's willful misconduct.
11. Provisions Applicable to ISOs. The following provisions shall apply
to all ISOs granted by the Board or the Stock Option Committee and are
incorporated by reference into any writing granting an ISO:
(a) An ISO may only be granted within ten (10) years from
October 11, 1995, the date that this Plan was originally adopted by the
Corporation's Board of Directors.
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(b) An ISO may not be exercised after the expiration of ten
(10) years from the date the ISO is granted.
(c) The option price may not be less than the fair market
value of the Stock at the time the ISO is granted.
(d) An ISO is not transferable by the Eligible Person to whom
it is granted except by will, or the laws of descent and distribution, and is
exercisable during his or her lifetime only by the Eligible Person.
(e) If the Eligible Person receiving the ISO owns at the time
of the grant stock possessing more than ten (10%) percent of the total combined
voting power of all classes of stock of the employer corporation or of its
parent or subsidiary corporation (as those terms are defined in the Code), then
the option price shall be at least 110% of the fair market value of the Stock,
and the ISO shall not be exercisable after the expiration of five (5) years from
the date the ISO is granted.
(f) The aggregate fair market value (determined at the time
the ISO is granted) of the Stock with respect to which the ISO is first
exercisable by the Eligible Person during any calendar year (under this Plan and
any other incentive stock option plan of the Corporation) shall not exceed
$100,000.
(g) Even if the shares of Stock which are issued upon exercise
of an ISO are sold within one year following the exercise of such ISO so that
the sale constitutes a disqualifying disposition for ISO treatment under the
Code, no provision of this Plan shall be construed as prohibiting such a sale.
(h) This Plan was ratified by the Corporation's Board of
Directors on October 9, 1996 for all issuance of ISOs and NSOs by the Company on
or subsequent to October 11, 1995. Approval by the stockholders of the
Corporation is to occur prior to December 31, 1996.
12. Determination of Fair Market Value. In granting ISOs under this
Plan, the Board or the Stock Option Committee shall make a good faith
determination as to the fair market value of the Stock at the time of granting
the ISO.
13. Restrictions on Issuance of Stock. The Corporation shall not be
obligated to sell or issue any shares of Stock pursuant to the exercise of an
Option unless the Stock with respect to which the Option is being exercised is
at that time effectively registered or exempt from registration under the
Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and any other applicable laws, rules and
regulations. The Corporation may condition the exercise of an Option granted in
accordance herewith upon receipt from the Eligible Person, or any other
purchaser thereof, of a written representation that at the time of such exercise
it is his or her then present intention to acquire the shares of Stock for
investment and not with a view to, or for sale in connection with, any
distribution thereof; except that, in the case of a legal representative of an
Eligible Person, "distribution" shall be defined to exclude distribution by will
or under the laws of descent and distribution. Prior to issuing any shares of
Stock pursuant to the exercise of an Option, the Corporation shall take such
steps as it deems necessary to satisfy any withholding tax obligations imposed
upon it by any level of government.
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14. Exercise in the Event of Death or Termination of Employment.
(a) If an optionee shall die (i) while an employee of the
Corporation or a Subsidiary or (ii) within three (3) months after termination of
his employment with the Corporation or a Subsidiary, the Options may be
exercised, to the extent that the optionee shall have been entitled to do so on
the date of his or her death or such termination of employment, by the person or
persons to whom the optionee's right under the Options pass by will or
applicable law, or if no such person has such right, by his executors or
administrators, at any time, or from time to time. In the event an optionee is
an employee of the Corporation or a Subsidiary at the time of his or her death,
the Options may be exercised not later than the expiration date specified in
Paragraph 5 or one (1) year after the optionee's death, whichever date is
earlier.
(b) Notwithstanding Section 14(a) above, if an optionee's
employment with the Corporation or a Subsidiary terminates because of his or her
disability, he or she may exercise the Options, to the extent that he or she
shall have been entitled to do so at the date of the termination of employment,
at any time, or from time to time, but not later than the expiration date
specified in Paragraph 5 hereof or one (1) year after termination of employment,
whichever date is earlier.
(c) If an optionee's employment shall terminate for any reason
other than death or disability, optionee may exercise the Options to the same
extent that the Options was exercisable on the date of termination, for up to
three (3) months following such termination, or on or before the expiration date
of the Options, whichever occurs first. In the event that the optionee was not
entitled to exercise the Options at the date of termination or if the optionee
does not exercise such Options (which he or she was entitled to exercise) within
the time specified herein, the Options shall terminate.
15. Corporate Events. In the event of the proposed dissolution or
liquidation of the Corporation, a proposed sale of all or substantially all of
the assets of the Corporation, a merger or tender for the Corporation's shares
of Common Stock the Board of Directors shall declare that each Option granted
under this Plan shall terminate as of a date to be fixed by the Board of
Directors; provided that not less than thirty (30) days written notice of the
date so fixed shall be given to each Eligible Person holding an Option, and each
such Eligible Person shall have the right, during the period of thirty (30) days
preceding such termination, to exercise his Option as to all or any part of the
shares of Stock covered thereby, including shares of Stock as to which such
Option would not otherwise be exercisable. Nothing set forth herein shall extend
the term set for purchasing the shares of Stock set forth in the Option.
16. No Guarantee of Employment. Nothing in this Plan or in any writing
granting an Option will confer upon any Eligible Person the right to continue in
the employ of the Eligible Person's employer, or will interfere with or restrict
in any way the right of the Eligible Person's employer to discharge such
Eligible Person at any time for any reason whatsoever, with or without cause.
17. Non-transferability. No Option granted under the Plan shall be
transferable other than by will or by the laws of descent and distribution.
During the lifetime of the optionee, an Option shall be exercisable only by him.
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18. No Rights as Stockholder. No optionee shall have any rights as a
stockholder with respect to any shares subject to his Option prior to the date
of issuance to him of a certificate or certificates for such shares.
19. Amendment and Discontinuance of Plan. The Corporation's Board of
Directors may amend, suspend or discontinue this Plan at any time. However, no
such action may prejudice the rights of any Eligible Person who has prior
thereto been granted Options under this Plan. Further, no amendment to this Plan
which has the effect of (a) increasing the aggregate number of shares of Stock
subject to this Plan (except for adjustments pursuant to Paragraph 3 herein), or
(b) changing the definition of Eligible Person under this Plan, may be effective
unless and until approval of the stockholders of the Corporation is obtained in
the same manner as approval of this Plan is required. The Corporation's Board of
Directors is authorized to seek the approval of the Corporation's stockholders
for any other changes it proposes to make to this Plan which require such
approval, however, the Board of Directors may modify the Plan, as necessary, to
effectuate the intent of the Plan as a result of any changes in the tax,
accounting or securities laws treatment of Eligible Persons and the Plan,
subject to the provisions set forth in this Paragraph 19, and Paragraphs 20 and
21.
20. Compliance with Rule 16b-3. This Plan is intended to comply in all
respects with Rule 16b-3 ("Rule 16b-3") promulgated by the Securities and
Exchange Commission under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the
"Exchange Act"), with respect to participants who are subject to Section 16 of
the Exchange Act, and any provision(s) herein that is/are contrary to Rule 16b-3
shall be deemed null and void to the extent appropriate by either the Stock
Option Committee or the Corporation's Board of Directors.
21. Compliance with Code. The aspects of this Plan on ISOs are intended
to comply in every respect with Section 422 of the Code and the regulations
promulgated thereunder. In the event any future statute or regulation shall
modify the existing statute, the aspects of this Plan on ISOs shall be deemed to
incorporate by reference such modification. Any stock option agreement relating
to any Option granted pursuant to this Plan outstanding and unexercised at the
time any modifying statute or regulation becomes effective shall also be deemed
to incorporate by reference such modification and no notice of such modification
need be given to optionee.
If any provision of the aspects of this Plan on ISOs is
determined to disqualify the shares purchasable pursuant to the Options granted
under this Plan from the special tax treatment provided by Code Section 422,
such provision shall be deemed null and void and to incorporate by reference the
modification required to qualify the shares for said tax treatment.
22. Compliance With Other Laws and Regulations. The Plan, the grant and
exercise of Options thereunder, and the obligation of the Corporation to sell
and deliver Stock under such options, shall be subject to all applicable federal
and state laws, rules, and regulations and to such approvals by any government
or regulatory agency as may be required. The Corporation shall not be required
to issue or deliver any certificates for shares of Stock prior to (a) the
listing of such shares on any stock exchange or over-the-counter market on which
the Stock may then be listed and (b) the completion of any registration or
qualification of such shares under any federal or state law, or any ruling or
regulation of any government body which the Corporation shall, in its sole
discretion, determine to be necessary or advisable. Moreover, no Option may be
exercised if its exercise or the receipt of Stock pursuant thereto would be
contrary to applicable laws.
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23. Disposition of Shares. In the event any share of Stock acquired by
an exercise of an Option granted under the Plan shall be transferable other than
by will or by the laws of descent and distribution within two years of the date
such Option was granted or within one year after the transfer of such Stock
pursuant to such exercise, the optionee shall give prompt written notice thereof
to the Corporation or the Stock Option Committee.
24. Name. The Plan shall be known as the "Homeseekers.com, Incorporated
Amended and Restated 1996 Stock Option Plan."
25. Notices. Any notice hereunder shall be in writing and sent by
certified mail, return receipt requested or by facsimile transmission (with
electronic or written confirmation of receipt) and when addressed to the
Corporation shall be sent to it at its office, 2241 Park Place, Suite E, Minden,
Nevada 89423-8602 and when addressed to the Committee shall be sent to it 2241
Park Place, Suite E, Minden, Nevada 89423-8602, subject to the right of either
party to designate at any time hereafter in writing some other address,
facsimile number or person to whose attention such notice shall be sent.
26. Headings. The headings preceding the text of Sections and
subparagraphs hereof are inserted solely for convenience of reference, and shall
not constitute a part of this Plan nor shall they affect its meaning,
construction or effect.
27. Effective Date. This Plan, the Homeseekers.com, Incorporated
Amended and Restated 1996 Stock Option Plan, yes adopted by the Board of
Directors of the Corporation on October 9, 1996. The effective date of the Plan
shall be the same date.
Dated as Of October 9, 1996.
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INCORPORATED
By:/s/ Greg Johnson
-------------------
Its: Chief Executive Officer
7
EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT
THIS EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT is entered into effective as of the 9th day of
March, 1999, notwithstanding the later execution hereof, by and between
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC., a Nevada corporation (formerly known as NDS Software,
Inc.)("Employer") and JOHN GIAIMO ("Employee").
WITNESSETH:
WHEREAS, Employer and Employee previously entered into an Employment Agreement
dated May 1, 1996 and amended pursuant to Amendment No. 1 on March 4, 1997; and
WHEREAS, Employer and Employee desire to amend and restate, in its entirety,
the Employment Agreement between Employer and Employee pursuant hereto.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises herein contained, the
parties agree as follows:
1. Employment Agreement. The Employer hereby agrees to employ Employee, and
Employee hereby agrees to serve as such Employee upon the terms and conditions
hereinafter set forth.
2. Term of Employment. Subject to the provisions for termination as hereinafter
provided, the term of the employment shall commence as of the date of this
Agreement and shall end five (5) years from that date on March 8, 2004. At the
end the term hereof, this Agreement may be renewed by mutual agreement of the
parties.
3. Employee's Position and Duties.Employee agrees as follows:
a. Employee shall assume responsibility as directed by the Board of
Directors as President of Employer. Employee shall be responsible for
the management and supervision of Employer and shall perform any other
duties relating to Employer's operations which may from time to time be
assigned by the Board of Directors and governed by the Bylaws of
Employer, for the successful operation of Employer's business.
b. Employee shall also serve on the Board of Directors of Employer
during the term of this Agreement, pursuant to the Articles of
Incorporation and Bylaws of Employer.
c. During the term of this Employment Agreement, Employee shall, in good
faith, devote his best efforts and full time to his employment and
perform diligently and in good faith such duties as are or may be from
time to time required by the Employer, which duties shall be consistent
with his position as set forth above; it being understood and
acknowledged that, the terms "best efforts" and "full time" mean such
effort and time commitment as is necessary to achieve the success of the
business.
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d. Employee shall not, without the prior written consent of Employer,
directly or indirectly, during the term of this Agreement, whether for
compensation or otherwise, render services of a business, professional or
commercial nature to any person or firm that is engaged in a business
similar to that of the Employer.
e. The parties agree that during the performance of this Agreement
Employee shall remain located in Brea, California, and Employer shall not
require Employee to change his principal place of residence for any
reason.
4. Compensation and Benefits. During the term of employment hereunder, Employer
shall compensate Employee as follows:
a. Salary. For all services he may render to Employer during the term of
this Agreement, Employee shall receive from Employer a base annual salary
while he is employed hereunder of One Hundred Forty Four Thousand Dollars
($144,000). Salary is to be paid in accordance with the policy of Employer
regarding payment of salary to its other officers and directors.
b. Annual Bonus. At the end of each taxable year, Employer shall pay a
cash bonus to Employee equal to four percent (4%) of the pre-tax earnings
of Employer as stated in the annual audit. (Example: if Employer earned
$800,000 pre-tax, Employee would receive a cash bonus in the amount of
$32,000). Additional compensation will be determined by a compensation
committee designated by the Board of Directors.
c. Additional Stock Options. Employee shall also receive, on an annual
basis, stock options to purchase Employer Common Stock equal to four
percent (4%) of the pre-tax earnings of Employer as stated in the annual
audit. (Example: if Employer earned $800,000 pre-tax, Employee would
receive stock options of $32,000). Additionally, Employee shall receive
options to purchase 100,000 shares of Employer Common Stock annually,
starting on March 9, 2000. The price payable by Employee for each share of
stock purchased under the stock options described in this paragraph shall
be set at the closing bid at the time of grant of each annual option.
Additional compensation will be determined by a compensation committee
designated by the Board of Directors.
d. Director's Compensation. During the time which Employee is a sitting
member of the Board of Directors of Employer, and properly fulfills his
duties therefor, Employer shall provide or reimburse to Employee expenses
comparable to other Directors of Employer.
e. Benefits. Employee shall be entitled to receive medical insurance
comparable to that offered to other employees of Employer. In addition,
Employee shall receive continued use of a company automobile while
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<PAGE>
employed. In the event Employee's employment is terminated, the company
automobile must be returned to Employer or an agreement entered into for
Employee's purchase of the automobile from Employer.
5. Termination of Employment.
a. For Cause. The employment of Employee under this Employment Agreement,
and the term hereof, may be terminated by the Employer only upon a showing
of "Cause", upon thirty (30) days' written notice to Employee. The
"effective date of termination" shall be the date thirty (30) days after
written notice of termination is delivered to the Employee. "Cause" is
defined as follows:
i. A material act or omission in the course of Employee's duties which is
dishonest or fraudulent;
ii. A material breach of this Agreement by Employee.
b. Disability or Death. The employment of Employee under this Employment
Agreement, and the term hereof, shall be terminated by the death or
partial or total disability of Employee. For purposes hereof, the term
"disability" is hereby defined to mean any mental or physical disability
which renders Employee unable to perform his duties or assignment as
determined by the Board of Directors of Employer, in the sole judgment and
discretion of said Board as determined by a majority vote of the members
thereof.
c. Resignation. The employment of Employee under this Employment
Agreement, and the term hereof, will be terminated by the voluntary
resignation of Employee.
6.Salary and Benefits Upon Termination. Except as specifically provided herein,
all salary and other benefits shall terminate as of the effective date of
termination if Employee resigns. If involuntarily terminated (except following a
Change in Control, provided for below) and in consideration for the obligations
of Employee pursuant to paragraphs 15 and 16 of the Employment Agreement,
Employee shall be entitled to a termination or severance salary equal to five
(5) years of the annual base salary earned by Employee immediately prior to
termination. Employee shall have the option to accelerate payments of the
severance salary and receive the full amount upon termination, in Employee's
sole discretion. Unless precluded by law, any medical and dental insurance
coverage and life insurance coverage and benefits shall continue for thirty (30)
days after termination or until Employee is re-employed, whichever shall first
occur.
7. Termination Following Change in Control. Employer will provide or cause to be
provided to Employee the rights and benefits described in Paragraph 9 below in
the event that Employee's employment is terminated at any time during the term
of this Agreement, or any renewal term, following a Change in Control (as such
term is defined in Paragraph 8) under circumstances stated in (a) or (b) below.
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a. The involuntary termination of Employee by Employer for reasons other
than for "Cause" (as such term is defined in Paragraph 5 of this
Agreement) or other than as a consequence of Employee's death, permanent
disability or attainment of the normal retirement date; or
b. The voluntary termination by Employee, which shall not result in a
breach of this Agreement, following the occurrence of any of the following
events:
i. the assignment to Employee of any duties or responsibilities that
are inconsistent with Employee's position, duties, responsibilities or
status immediately preceding such Change in Control, or a reduction of
Employee's responsibilities subsequent to the Change in Control;
ii. the reduction of Employee's annual salary (including any deferred
portions) or level of benefits or supplemental compensation;
iii. the transfer of Employee to a location requiring a change in
Employee's residence or a material increase in the amount of travel
normally required of Employee in connection with Employee's employment;
or
iv. the good faith determination by Employee that due to the Change in
Control (including any changes in circumstances at Employer that
directly or indirectly effect Employee's position, duties,
responsibilities or status immediately preceding such Change in
Control) he is no longer able effectively to discharge Employee's
duties and responsibilities.
8. Definition of Change of Control. For purposes of this Agreement, a "Change of
Control" shall be deemed to have taken place if:
a. a third person, including a "group" as defined in Section 13(d)(3) of
the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, becomes the beneficial owner of
shares of the Employer having more than fifty percent (50%) of the total
number of votes that may be cast by holders of capital stock upon any
corporate action proposed to shareholders for approval or adoption; or
b. as a result of, or in connection with, any cash tender or securities
exchange offer, merger, or other business combination, sale of assets or
contested election, or any combination of the foregoing transactions (a
"Transaction"), the persons who were directors of the Employer before the
Transaction shall cease to constitute a majority of the Board of the
Employer or any successor corporation.
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9. Benefits Entitlements. On or before Employee's last day of employment with
the Employer or any of its subsidiaries, the Employer will pay to the Employee
as compensation for services rendered a lump sum cash amount (subject to any
applicable payroll or other taxes required to be withheld) equal to the sum of,
a. Employees' highest annual salary fixed during the period he was an
employee of the Employer, plus
b. the largest aggregate amount awarded to Employee in a year as cash
bonus (whether or not deferred) under the Corporation's short and long
term cash incentive plans or arrangements providing for performance bonus
payments during the preceding years, multiplied by:
i. five (5), whether the termination is involuntary or voluntary.
10. Taxes. In the event a tax is imposed pursuant to Section 4999 of the
Internal Revenue Code ("Excise Tax") on any portion of a benefit payment made to
an Employee in accordance with Paragraph 9, Employer shall relieve the Employee
of the Excise Tax burden by paying;
a. the initial Excise Tax and
b. any additional Excise Tax and federal and state income tax which arise
as a result of Employer's payment of the initial Excise Tax on behalf of
the Employee.
11. Payment Obligations Absolute. The Employer's obligation to pay the Employee
the benefits described herein shall be absolute and unconditional and shall not
be affected by any circumstances, including, without limitation, any set-off,
counter-claim, recoupment, defense or other right which the Employer may have
against the Employee or anyone else. All amounts payable by the Employer shall
be paid without notice or demand. Each and every payment made by the Employer
shall be final and the Employer will not seek to recover all or any part of such
payment(s) from the Employee or from whosoever may be entitled to such
payment(s) for any reason whatsoever. The Employee shall not be obligated to
seek other employment in mitigation of the amounts payable or arrangements made
under any provisions herein, and the obtaining of any such other employment
shall in no event effect any reduction of the Employer's or subsidiary's
obligations to make the payments and arrangements required to be made hereunder.
The Employer may at the discretion of the Board of Directors of the Employer
enter into an irrevocable, third party guarantee or similar agreement with a
bank or other institution with respect to the benefits payable to an Employee,
which would provide for the unconditional payment of such benefits by such
third-party upon presentment by an Employee of a Certificate (and on such other
conditions deemed necessary or desirable by the Employer) at some specified time
after termination of employment. Such third-party guarantor shall have no
liability for improper payment if it follows the instructions of the Employer as
provided in such Certificate and other documents required to be presented under
the agreement, unless the Employer, in a written notice, has previously advised
such third-party guarantor of the determination by its Board of Directors of
ineligibility of the Employee
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12. Successors. This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of
the Employee and his estate, the Employer and any applicable subsidiary and any
successor of the Employer or applicable subsidiary, but neither this Amendment
nor any rights arising under it may be assigned, pledged or disposed of in any
manner by the Employee or his beneficiary.
13. Other Agreements. Nothing in this paragraph is intended to result in set-off
of pension benefits, supplemental executive retirement benefits, disability
benefits, retiree benefits or any other plan benefits not directly provided as
termination or separation benefits.
14. Reimbursable Expenses. The Employer shall pay directly or reimburse the
Employee for the following expenses:
a. License fees and membership dues in associations or organizations relative
to the business of the Employer,
b. Subscriptions to journals or monthly service publications relative to
the business of the Employer.
c. The Employee's necessary travel, hotel, and entertainment expenses
incurred in connection with the business of the Employer or other events
that contribute to the benefit of the Employer in amounts to be determined
by the Board of Directors.
15. Noncompetition/Nonsolicitation. Employee, as additional material
consideration hereunder, agrees that during the term hereof and for a period of
five (5) years from termination of this Agreement, he will not directly or
indirectly solicit business from, engage in business with, or divert business
from any of Employer's current or future customers, and that they will not
participate as a shareholder, partner, employee, consultant, or otherwise in any
enterprise engaging in activities that would violate this provision if engaged
in by them directly. This covenant shall be applicable to the World, on the
basis that Employer sells its products nationally or internationally. Employee
acknowledges and agrees that the scope of this covenant is reasonable given the
special relationship of the parties as to the various agreements executed by
them. Employee acknowledges and confirms that this covenant is made to induce
Employer to enter into this Agreement, is considered material to Employer, and
is required by Employer for the purpose of preserving the business and goodwill
of Employer.
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16. Confidentiality Provision. Employee agrees that, during the term of this
Agreement or any extensions and for a period of ten (10) years thereafter, he
will keep confidential any information which he obtains from Employer or any of
said entities' subsidiaries, sister corporations or concerns, now or hereafter
existing or created, concerning their properties, assets, proprietary assets,
source codes, copyrights, business methods, and trade secrets. Upon termination
hereof, Employee will return to Employer all written matter with respect to such
businesses obtained by him in connection with the negotiation, consummation, or
performance of this Agreement. Employee further agrees that any work performed
or created by Employee during the term hereof shall be owned solely by Employer
and shall be subject to the terms of this provision.
17. Modification. No change or modification of this Agreement shall be valid
unless the same be in writing and signed by all the parties hereto.
18. Binding Effect. The contract shall be binding upon the heirs, executors,
administrators, and assigns of the Employee and any successors in interest of
the Employer.
19. Notice. Except as expressly provided to the contrary herein, notices or
other communications required, permitted, or made necessary by the terms of this
Agreement may be given orally to the respective representatives of the Employer
and the Employee designed herein. Written notices shall be personally delivered
to the Employer's representative or the Employee's representative, as
appropriate or sent by the United States registered or certified mail, postage
prepaid, return receipt requested, addressed to the party as designated below.
Notices sent by mail shall be deemed made, delivered and received on the date of
the United States postmark thereon. Either party may change its address or
notice by giving notice of such change to the other party in the manner
specified in this section.
For purposes of notice the addresses of the parties shall be:
If to Employer:
Homeseekers.com, Inc.
2241 Park Place, Suite E
Minden, NV 89423-8602.
If to Employee:
John Giaimo
2800 Saturn Street, Suite 200
Brea, CA. 92821
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20. No Waiver. No waiver of any breach or default in any of the terms and
provisions of this Agreement shall be deemed to constitute or be construed as a
waiver of the subsequent breach or default of the same, similar or dissimilar
nature.
21. Choice of Law and Invalidity. The validity, construction, performance and
effect of this Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of Nevada
and jurisdiction shall vest exclusively in the Ninth Judicial District Court in
and for the State of Nevada, located in Douglas County. The parties acknowledge
and agree that this Agreement is executed and performance hereof is due in
Douglas County, State of Nevada. In case any one or more of the provisions
contained herein shall for any reason be held to be invalid, illegal, or
unenforceable in any respect, such invalidity, illegality, or unenforceability
shall not affect any other provisions of this Agreement, but this Agreement
shall be construed as if such invalid, illegal, or unenforceable provisions
contained herein shall, for any reason, be held to be excessively broad as to
time, duration, geographical scope, activity or subject, said provision shall be
construed by limiting and reducing it so as to be enforceable to the extent
compatible with the then applicable law, it being the intent of the parties
hereto to give the maximum permitted effect to the restrictions set forth
herein.
22. Assignment. This Agreement is one for personal services and the Employee
shall not have a right to assign any part or all of his respective rights,
duties or obligations hereunder.
23. Interpretation. If necessary to give effect to the terms and provisions
hereof, the masculine, feminine, and neuter gender in the singular and plural
number shall each be deemed to include the other whenever the context so
indicates.
24. Headings. Headings in this Agreement are inserted for convenience and
identification only and are in no way intended to describe, interpret, define or
limit the scope, extent or intent of this Agreement or any provision hereof.
25. Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts,
any of which may be constituted in the agreement between the parties hereto.
26. Authority. The Employer warrants and represents that it is a corporation
organized and existing under the laws of the State of Nevada, that the
undersigned is authorized to execute this Agreement on behalf of the Employer;
that the employment of the Employee under the terms of this Agreement has been
duly authorized by the Employer.
27. Inurement. Each covenant and condition in this Agreement shall be binding
on, and shall insure solely to the benefit of the parties to it, their
respective heirs, legal representatives successors and assigns.
28. Entire Agreement. Except as otherwise provided herein, this Agreement
supersedes any and all other agreements, either oral or in writing, between the
8
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parties hereto and contains all of the covenants and agreements between the
parties with respect to this matter. Each party to this Agreement acknowledges
that no representations, inducements, promises, or agreements, orally or
otherwise, have been made by any party, or anyone acting on behalf of any party,
which are not embodied herein, and that no other agreement, statement or promise
not contained in this Agreement shall be binding.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Employment Agreement
effective as of the day and year first above written.
EMPLOYEE: EMPLOYER:
John Giaimo HomeSeekers.com, Inc.
a Nevada Corporation
By: /s/ John Giaimo By: /s/ Greg Johnson
------------------------ ---------------------------
Greg Johnson, Chairman & CEO
By:/s/ Doug Swanson Doug Swanson,
---------------------------------
Vice-Chairman &
Executive Vice-President
9
EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT
THIS EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT is entered into effective as of the 9th day of
March, 1999, notwithstanding the later execution hereof, by and between
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC., a Nevada corporation (formerly known as NDS Software,
Inc.)("Employer") and GREG JOHNSON ("Employee").
WITNESSETH:
WHEREAS, Employer and Employee previously entered into an Employment Agreement
dated June 13, 1996 and amended pursuant to Amendment No. 1 on March 4, 1997;
and
WHEREAS, Employer and Employee desire to amend and restate, in its entirety,
the Employment Agreement between Employer and Employee pursuant hereto.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises herein contained, the
parties agree as follows:
1. Employment Agreement. The Employer hereby agrees to employ Employee, and
Employee hereby agrees to serve as such Employee upon the terms and conditions
hereinafter set forth.
2. Term of Employment. Subject to the provisions for termination as hereinafter
provided, the term of the employment shall commence as of the date of this
Agreement and shall end five (5) years from that date on March 8, 2004. At the
end the term hereof, this Agreement may be renewed by mutual agreement of the
parties.
3. Employee's Position and Duties. Employee agrees as follows:
a. Employee shall assume responsibility as directed by the Board of
Directors as Chief Executive Officer of Employer. Employee shall be
responsible for the management and supervision of Employer and shall
perform any other duties relating to Employer's operations which may from
time to time be assigned by the Board of Directors and governed by the
Bylaws of Employer, for the successful operation of Employer's business.
b. It is contemplated that Employee shall also be on the Board of
Directors of Employer during the term of this Agreement, pursuant to the
Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws of Employer.
c. During the term of this Employment Agreement, Employee shall, in good
faith, devote his best efforts and full time to his employment and perform
diligently and in good faith such duties as are or may be from time to
time required by the Employer, which duties shall be consistent with his
position as set forth above; it being understood and acknowledged that,
the terms "best efforts" and "full time" mean such effort and time
commitment as is necessary to achieve the success of the business.
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<PAGE>
d. Employee shall not, without the prior written consent of Employer,
directly or indirectly, during the term of this Agreement, whether for
compensation or otherwise, render services of a business, professional or
commercial nature to any person or firm that is engaged in a business
similar to that of the Employer.
e. The parties agree that during the performance of this Agreement
Employee shall remain located in Douglas County, Nevada and Employer shall
not require Employee to change his principal place of residence for any
reason.
4. Compensation and Benefits. During the term of employment hereunder, Employer
shall compensate Employee as follows:
a. Salary. For all services he may render to Employer during the term of
this Agreement, Employee shall receive from Employer a base annual salary
while he is employed hereunder of One Hundred Forty Four Thousand Dollars
($144,000). Salary is to be paid in accordance with the policy of Employer
regarding payment of salary to its other officers and directors.
b. Annual Bonus. At the end of each taxable year, Employer shall pay a
cash bonus to Employee equal to four percent (4%) of the pre-tax earnings
of Employer as stated in the annual audit. (Example: if Employer earned
$800,000 pre-tax, Employee would receive a cash bonus in the amount of
$32,000). Additional compensation will be determined by a compensation
committee designated by the Board of Directors.
c. Additional Stock Options. Employee shall also receive, on an annual
basis, stock options to purchase Employer Common Stock equal to four
percent (4%) of the pre-tax earnings of Employer as stated in the annual
audit. (Example: if Employer earned $800,000 pre-tax, Employee would
receive stock options of $32,000). Additionally, Employee shall receive
options to purchase 100,000 shares of Employer Common Stock annually,
starting on March 9, 2000. The price payable by Employee for each share of
stock purchased under the stock options described in this paragraph shall
be set at the closing bid at the time of grant of each annual option.
Additional compensation will be determined by a compensation committee
designated by the Board of Directors.
d. Director's Compensation. During the time which Employee is a sitting
member of the Board of Directors of Employer, and properly fulfills his
duties therefor, Employer shall provide or reimburse to Employee expenses
comparable to other Directors of Employer.
e. Benefits. Employee shall be entitled to receive medical insurance
comparable to that offered to other employees of Employer. In addition,
Employee shall receive a monthly automobile allowance in the amount of
$600.
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<PAGE>
5. Termination of Employment.
a. For Cause. The employment of Employee under this Employment Agreement,
and the term hereof, may be terminated by the Employer only upon a showing
of "Cause", upon thirty (30) days' written notice to Employee. The
"effective date of termination" shall be the date thirty (30) days after
written notice of termination is delivered to the Employee. "Cause" is
defined as follows:
i. A material act or omission in the course of Employee's duties which is
dishonest or fraudulent;
ii. A material breach of this Agreement by Employee.
b. Disability or Death. The employment of Employee under this Employment
Agreement, and the term hereof, shall be terminated by the death or
partial or total disability of Employee. For purposes hereof, the term
"disability" is hereby defined to mean any mental or physical disability
which renders Employee unable to perform his duties or assignment as
determined by the Board of Directors of Employer, in the sole judgment and
discretion of said Board as determined by a majority vote of the members
thereof.
c. Resignation. The employment of Employee under this Employment
Agreement, and the term hereof, will be terminated by the voluntary
resignation of Employee.
6. Salary and Benefits Upon Termination. Except as specifically provided herein,
all salary and other benefits shall terminate as of the effective date of
termination if Employee resigns. If involuntarily terminated (except following a
Change in Control, as provided for below) and in consideration for the
obligations of Employee pursuant to paragraphs 15 and 16 of the Employment
Agreement, Employee shall be entitled to a termination or severance salary equal
to five (5) years of the annual base salary earned by Employee immediately prior
to termination. Employee shall have the option to accelerate payments of the
severance salary and receive the full amount upon termination, in Employee's
sole discretion. Unless precluded by law, any medical and dental insurance
coverage and life insurance coverage and benefits shall continue for thirty (30)
days after termination or until Employee is re-employed, whichever shall first
occur.
7. Termination Following Change in Control. Employer will provide or cause to be
provided to Employee the rights and benefits described in Paragraph 9 below in
the event that Employee's employment is terminated at any time during the term
of this Agreement, or any renewal term, following a Change in Control (as such
term is defined in Paragraph 8) under circumstances stated in (a) or (b) below.
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<PAGE>
a. The involuntary termination of Employee by Employer for reasons other
than for "Cause" (as such term is defined in Paragraph 5 of this
Agreement) or other than as a consequence of Employee's death, permanent
disability or attainment of the normal retirement date; or
b. The voluntary termination by Employee, which shall not result in a
breach of this Agreement, following the occurrence of any of the following
events:
i. the assignment to Employee of any duties or responsibilities that
are inconsistent with Employee's position, duties, responsibilities or
status immediately preceding such Change in Control, or a reduction of
Employee's responsibilities subsequent to the Change in Control;
ii. the reduction of Employee's annual salary (including any deferred
portions) or level of benefits or supplemental compensation;
iii. the transfer of Employee to a location requiring a change in
Employee's residence or a material increase in the amount of travel
normally required of Employee in connection with Employee's employment;
or
iv. the good faith determination by Employee that due to the Change in
Control (including any changes in circumstances at Employer that
directly or indirectly effect Employee's position, duties,
responsibilities or status immediately preceding such Change in
Control) he is no longer able effectively to discharge Employee's
duties and responsibilities.
8. Definition of Change of Control. For purposes of this Agreement, a "Change of
Control" shall be deemed to have taken place if:
a. a third person, including a "group" as defined in Section 13(d)(3) of
the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, becomes the beneficial owner of
shares of the Employer having more than fifty percent (50%) of the
total number of votes that may be cast by holders of capital stock upon
any corporate action proposed to shareholders for approval or adoption;
or
b. as a result of, or in connection with, any cash tender or securities
exchange offer, merger, or other business combination, sale of assets
or contested election, or any combination of the foregoing transactions
(a "Transaction"), the persons who were directors of the Employer
before the Transaction shall cease to constitute a majority of the
Board of the Employer or any successor corporation.
4
<PAGE>
9. Benefits Entitlements. On or before Employee's last day of employment with
the Employer or any of its subsidiaries, the Employer will pay to the Employee
as compensation for services rendered a lump sum cash amount (subject to any
applicable payroll or other taxes required to be withheld) equal to the sum of,
a. Employees' highest annual salary fixed during the period he was an
employee of the Employer, plus
b. the largest aggregate amount awarded to Employee in a year as cash
bonus (whether or not deferred) under the Corporation's short and long
term cash incentive plans or arrangements providing for performance
bonus payments during the preceding years, multiplied by:
i. five (5), whether the termination is involuntary or voluntary.
10. Taxes. In the event a tax is imposed pursuant to Section 4999 of the
Internal Revenue Code ("Excise Tax") on any portion of a benefit payment made to
an Employee in accordance with Paragraph 9, Employer shall relieve the Employee
of the Excise Tax burden by paying;
a. the initial Excise Tax and
b. any additional Excise Tax and federal and state income tax which
arise as a result of Employer's payment of the initial Excise Tax on
behalf of the Employee.
11. Payment Obligations Absolute. The Employer's obligation to pay the Employee
the benefits described herein shall be absolute and unconditional and shall not
be affected by any circumstances, including, without limitation, any set-off,
counter-claim, recoupment, defense or other right which the Employer may have
against the Employee or anyone else. All amounts payable by the Employer shall
be paid without notice or demand. Each and every payment made by the Employer
shall be final and the Employer will not seek to recover all or any part of such
payment(s) from the Employee or from whosoever may be entitled to such
payment(s) for any reason whatsoever. The Employee shall not be obligated to
seek other employment in mitigation of the amounts payable or arrangements made
under any provisions herein, and the obtaining of any such other employment
shall in no event effect any reduction of the Employer's or subsidiary's
obligations to make the payments and arrangements required to be made hereunder.
The Employer may at the discretion of the Board of Directors of the Employer
enter into an irrevocable, third party guarantee or similar agreement with a
bank or other institution with respect to the benefits payable to an Employee,
which would provide for the unconditional payment of such benefits by such
third-party upon presentment by an Employee of a Certificate (and on such other
conditions deemed necessary or desirable by the Employer) at some specified time
after termination of employment. Such third-party guarantor shall have no
liability for improper payment if it follows the instructions of the Employer as
provided in such Certificate and other documents required to be presented under
the agreement, unless the Employer, in a written notice, has previously advised
such third-party guarantor of the determination by its Board of Directors of
ineligibility of the Employee
5
<PAGE>
12. Successors. This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of
the Employee and his estate, the Employer and any applicable subsidiary and any
successor of the Employer or applicable subsidiary, but neither this Amendment
nor any rights arising under it may be assigned, pledged or disposed of in any
manner by the Employee or his beneficiary.
13. Other Agreements. Nothing in this paragraph is intended to result in set-off
of pension benefits, supplemental executive retirement benefits, disability
benefits, retiree benefits or any other plan benefits not directly provided as
termination or separation benefits.
14. Reimbursable Expenses. The Employer shall pay directly or reimburse the
Employee for the following expenses:
a. License fees and membership dues in associations or organizations
relative to the business of the Employer,
b. Subscriptions to journals or monthly service publications relative
to the business of the Employer.
c. The Employee's necessary travel, hotel, and entertainment expenses
incurred in connection with the business of the Employer or other
events that contribute to the benefit of the Employer in amounts to be
determined by the Board of Directors.
15. Noncompetition/Nonsolicitation. Employee, as additional material
consideration hereunder, agrees that during the term hereof and for a period of
five (5) years from termination of this Agreement, he will not directly or
indirectly solicit business from, engage in business with, or divert business
from any of Employer's current or future customers, and that they will not
participate as a shareholder, partner, employee, consultant, or otherwise in any
enterprise engaging in activities that would violate this provision if engaged
in by them directly. This covenant shall be applicable to the World on the basis
that Employer sells its products nationally or internationally. Employee
acknowledges and agrees that the scope of this covenant is reasonable given the
special relationship of the parties as to the various agreements executed by
them. Employee acknowledges and confirms that this covenant is made to induce
Employer to enter into this Agreement, is considered material to Employer, and
is required by Employer for the purpose of preserving the business and goodwill
of Employer.
16. Confidentiality Provision. Employee agrees that, during the term of this
Agreement or any extensions and for a period of ten (10) years thereafter, he
6
<PAGE>
will keep confidential any information which he obtains from Employer or any of
said entities' subsidiaries, sister corporations or concerns, now or hereafter
existing or created, concerning their properties, assets, proprietary assets,
source codes, copyrights, business methods, and trade secrets. Upon termination
hereof, Employee will return to Employer all written matter with respect to such
businesses obtained by him in connection with the negotiation, consummation, or
performance of this Agreement. Employee further agrees that any work performed
or created by Employee during the term hereof shall be owned solely by Employer
and shall be subject to the terms of this provision.
17. Modification. No change or modification of this Agreement shall be valid
unless the same be in writing and signed by all the parties hereto.
18. Binding Effect. The contract shall be binding upon the heirs, executors,
administrators, and assigns of the Employee and any successors in interest of
the Employer.
19. Notice. Except as expressly provided to the contrary herein, notices or
other communications required, permitted, or made necessary by the terms of this
Agreement may be given orally to the respective representatives of the Employer
and the Employee designed herein. Written notices shall be personally delivered
to the Employer's representative or the Employee's representative, as
appropriate or sent by the United States registered or certified mail, postage
prepaid, return receipt requested, addressed to the party as designated below.
Notices sent by mail shall be deemed made, delivered and received on the date of
the United States postmark thereon. Either party may change its address or
notice by giving notice of such change to the other party in the manner
specified in this section.
For purposes of notice the addresses of the parties shall be:
If to Employer:
HomeSeekers.com, Inc.
2241 Park Place, Suite E
Minden, NV 89423-8602.
If to Employee:
Greg Johnson
P.O. Box 1421
Gardnerville, NV 89410
20. No Waiver. No waiver of any breach or default in any of the terms and
provisions of this Agreement shall be deemed to constitute or be construed as a
waiver of the subsequent breach or default of the same, similar or dissimilar
nature.
21. Choice of Law and Invalidity. The validity, construction, performance and
effect of this Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of Nevada
7
<PAGE>
and jurisdiction shall vest exclusively in the Ninth Judicial District Court in
and for the State of Nevada, located in Douglas County. The parties acknowledge
and agree that this Agreement is executed and performance hereof is due in
Douglas County, State of Nevada. In case any one or more of the provisions
contained herein shall for any reason be held to be invalid, illegal, or
unenforceable in any respect, such invalidity, illegality, or unenforceability
shall not affect any other provisions of this Agreement, but this Agreement
shall be construed as if such invalid, illegal, or unenforceable provisions
contained herein shall, for any reason, be held to be excessively broad as to
time, duration, geographical scope, activity or subject, said provision shall be
construed by limiting and reducing it so as to be enforceable to the extent
compatible with the then applicable law, it being the intent of the parties
hereto to give the maximum permitted effect to the restrictions set forth
herein.
22. Assignment. This Agreement is one for personal services and the Employee
shall not have a right to assign any part or all of his respective rights,
duties or obligations hereunder.
23. Interpretation. If necessary to give effect to the terms and provisions
hereof, the masculine, feminine, and neuter gender in the singular and plural
number shall each be deemed to include the other whenever the context so
indicates.
24. Headings. Headings in this Agreement are inserted for convenience and
identification only and are in no way intended to describe, interpret, define or
limit the scope, extent or intent of this Agreement or any provision hereof
25. Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts,
any of which may be constituted in the agreement between the parties hereto.
26. Authority. The Employer warrants and represents that it is a corporation
organized and existing under the laws of the State of Nevada, that the
undersigned is authorized to execute this Agreement on behalf of the Employer;
that the employment of the Employee under the terms of this Agreement has been
duly authorized by the Employer.
27. Inurement. Each covenant and condition in this Agreement shall be binding
on, and shall insure solely to the benefit of the parties to it, their
respective heirs, legal representatives successors and assigns.
28. Entire Agreement. Except as otherwise provided herein, this Agreement
supersedes any and all other agreements, either oral or in writing, between the
parties hereto and contains all of the covenants and agreements between the
parties with respect to this matter. Each party to this Agreement acknowledges
that no representations, inducements, promises, or agreements, orally or
otherwise, have been made by any party, or anyone acting on behalf of any party,
which are not embodied herein, and that no other agreement, statement or promise
not contained in this Agreement shall be binding.
8
<PAGE>
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Employment Agreement
effective as of the day and year first above written.
EMPLOYEE: EMPLOYER:
Greg Johnson HomeSeekers.com, Inc.
a Nevada Corporation,
By: /s/ Greg Johnson By: /s/ John Giaimo
-------------------- -------------------
John Giaimo, President & COO
By: /s/ Doug Swanson
--------------------
Doug Swanson,
Chairman & Executive Vice-President
9
EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT
THIS EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT is entered into effective as of the 9th day of
March, 1999, notwithstanding the later execution hereof, by and between
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC., a Nevada corporation (formerly known as NDS Software,
Inc.)("Employer") and DOUG SWANSON ("Employee").
WITNESSETH:
WHEREAS, Employer and Employee previously entered into an Employment Agreement
dated June 13, 1996 and amended pursuant to Amendment No. 1 on March 4, 1997;
and
WHEREAS, Employer and Employee desire to amend and restate, in its entirety,
the Employment Agreement between Employer and Employee pursuant hereto.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises herein contained, the
parties agree as follows:
1. Employment Agreement. The Employer hereby agrees to employ Employee, and
Employee hereby agrees to serve as such Employee upon the terms and conditions
hereinafter set forth.
2. Term of Employment. Subject to the provisions for termination as hereinafter
provided, the term of the employment shall commence as of the date of this
Agreement and shall end five (5) years from that date on March 8, 2004. At the
end the term hereof, this Agreement may be renewed by mutual agreement of the
parties.
3. Employee's Position and Duties. Employee agrees as follows:
a. Employee shall assume responsibility as directed by the Board of
Directors as Vice- Chairman of the Board of Directors and Executive
Vice-President of Employer. Employee shall be responsible for the
management and supervision of Employer and shall perform any other duties
relating to Employer's operations which may from time to time be assigned
by the Board of Directors and governed by the Bylaws of Employer, for the
successful operation of Employer's business.
b. It is contemplated that Employee shall also be on the Board of
Directors of Employer during the term of this Agreement, pursuant to the
Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws of Employer.
c. During the term of this Employment Agreement, Employee shall, in good
faith, devote his best efforts and full time to his employment and perform
diligently and in good faith such duties as are or may be from time to
time required by the Employer, which duties shall be consistent with his
position as set forth above; it being understood and acknowledged that,
the terms "best efforts" and "full time" mean such effort and time
commitment as is necessary to achieve the success of the business.
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<PAGE>
d. Employee shall not, without the prior written consent of Employer,
directly or indirectly, during the term of this Agreement, whether for
compensation or otherwise, render services of a business, professional or
commercial nature to any person or firm that is engaged in a business
similar to that of the Employer.
e. The parties agree that during the performance of this Agreement
Employee shall remain located in Reno, Nevada and Employer shall not
require Employee to change his principal place of residence for any
reason.
4. Compensation and Benefits. During the term of employment hereunder, Employer
shall compensate Employee as follows:
a. Salary. For all services he may render to Employer during the term of
this Agreement, Employee shall receive from Employer a base annual salary
while he is employed hereunder of One Hundred Forty Four Thousand Dollars
($144,000). Salary is to be paid in accordance with the policy of Employer
regarding payment of salary to its other officers and directors.
b. Annual Bonus. At the end of each taxable year, Employer shall pay a
cash bonus to Employee equal to four percent (4%) of the pre-tax earnings
of Employer as stated in the annual audit. (Example: if Employer earned
$800,000 pre-tax, Employee would receive a cash bonus in the amount of
$32,000). Additional compensation will be determined by a compensation
committee designated by the Board of Directors.
c. Additional Stock Options. Employee shall also receive, on an annual
basis, stock options to purchase Employer Common Stock equal to four
percent (4%) of the pre-tax earnings of Employer as stated in the annual
audit. (Example: if Employer earned $800,000 pre-tax, Employee would
receive stock options of $32,000). Additionally, Employee shall receive
options to purchase 100,000 shares of Employer Common Stock annually,
starting on March 9, 2000. The price payable by Employee for each share of
stock purchased under the stock options described in this paragraph shall
be set at the closing bid at the time of grant of each annual option.
Additional compensation will be determined by a compensation committee
designated by the Board of Directors.
d. Director's Compensation. During the time which Employee is a sitting
member of the Board of Directors of Employer, and properly fulfills his
duties therefor, Employer shall provide or reimburse to Employee expenses
comparable to other Directors of Employer.
e. Benefits. Employee shall be entitled to receive medical insurance
comparable to that offered to other employees of Employer. In addition,
Employee shall receive a monthly automobile allowance in the amount of
$600.
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<PAGE>
5. Termination of Employment.
a. For Cause. The employment of Employee under this Employment Agreement,
and the term hereof, may be terminated by the Employer only upon a showing
of "Cause", upon thirty (30) days' written notice to Employee. The
"effective date of termination" shall be the date thirty (30) days after
written notice of termination is delivered to the Employee. "Cause" is
defined as follows:
i. A material act or omission in the course of Employee's duties which
is dishonest or fraudulent;
ii. A material breach of this Agreement by Employee.
b. Disability or Death. The employment of Employee under this Employment
Agreement, and the term hereof, shall be terminated by the death or
partial or total disability of Employee. For purposes hereof, the term
"disability" is hereby defined to mean any mental or physical disability
which renders Employee unable to perform his duties or assignment as
determined by the Board of Directors of Employer, in the sole judgment and
discretion of said Board as determined by a majority vote of the members
thereof.
c. Resignation. The employment of Employee under this Employment
Agreement, and the term hereof, will be terminated by the voluntary
resignation of Employee.
6.Salary and Benefits Upon Termination. Except as specifically provided herein,
all salary and other benefits shall terminate as of the effective date of
termination if Employee resigns. If involuntarily terminated (except following a
Change in Control, as provided for below) and in consideration for the
obligations of Employee pursuant to paragraphs 15 and 16 of the Employment
Agreement, Employee shall be entitled to a termination or severance salary equal
to five (5) years of the annual base salary earned by Employee immediately prior
to termination. Employee shall have the option to accelerate payments of the
severance salary and receive the full amount upon termination, in Employee's
sole discretion. Unless precluded by law, any medical and dental insurance
coverage and life insurance coverage and benefits shall continue for thirty (30)
days after termination or until Employee is re-employed, whichever shall first
occur.
7. Termination Following Change in Control. Employer will provide or cause to be
provided to Employee the rights and benefits described in Paragraph 9 below in
the event that Employee's employment is terminated at any time during the term
of this Agreement, or any renewal term, following a Change in Control (as such
term is defined in Paragraph 8) under circumstances stated in (a) or (b) below.
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a. The involuntary termination of Employee by Employer for reasons other
than for "Cause" (as such term is defined in Paragraph 5 of this
Agreement) or other than as a consequence of Employee's death, permanent
disability or attainment of the normal retirement date; or
b. The voluntary termination by Employee, which shall not result in a
breach of this Agreement, following the occurrence of any of the following
events:
i. the assignment to Employee of any duties or responsibilities that
are inconsistent with Employee's position, duties, responsibilities or
status immediately preceding such Change in Control, or a reduction of
Employee's responsibilities subsequent to the Change in Control;
ii. the reduction of Employee's annual salary (including any deferred
portions) or level of benefits or supplemental compensation;
iii. the transfer of Employee to a location requiring a change in
Employee's residence or a material increase in the amount of travel
normally required of Employee in connection with Employee's employment;
or
iv. the good faith determination by Employee that due to the Change in
Control (including any changes in circumstances at Employer that
directly or indirectly effect Employee's position, duties,
responsibilities or status immediately preceding such Change in
Control) he is no longer able effectively to discharge Employee's
duties and responsibilities.
8. Definition of Change of Control. For purposes of this Agreement, a "Change of
Control" shall be deemed to have taken place if:
a. a third person, including a "group" as defined in Section 13(d)(3) of
the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, becomes the beneficial owner of
shares of the Employer having more than fifty percent (50%) of the
total number of votes that may be cast by holders of capital stock upon
any corporate action proposed to shareholders for approval or adoption;
or
b. as a result of, or in connection with, any cash tender or securities
exchange offer, merger, or other business combination, sale of assets
or contested election, or any combination of the foregoing transactions
(a "Transaction"), the persons who were directors of the Employer
before the Transaction shall cease to constitute a majority of the
Board of the Employer or any successor corporation.
4
<PAGE>
9. Benefits Entitlements. On or before Employee's last day of employment with
the Employer or any of its subsidiaries, the Employer will pay to the Employee
as compensation for services rendered a lump sum cash amount (subject to any
applicable payroll or other taxes required to be withheld) equal to the sum of,
a. Employees' highest annual salary fixed during the period he was an
employee of the Employer, plus
b. the largest aggregate amount awarded to Employee in a year as cash
bonus (whether or not deferred) under the Corporation's short and long
term cash incentive plans or arrangements providing for performance
bonus payments during the preceding years, multiplied by:
i. five (5), whether the termination is involuntary or voluntary.
10. Taxes. In the event a tax is imposed pursuant to Section 4999 of the
Internal Revenue Code ("Excise Tax") on any portion of a benefit payment made to
an Employee in accordance with Paragraph 9, Employer shall relieve the Employee
of the Excise Tax burden by paying;
a. the initial Excise Tax and
b. any additional Excise Tax and federal and state income tax which
arise as a result of Employer's payment of the initial Excise Tax on
behalf of the Employee.
11. Payment Obligations Absolute. The Employer's obligation to pay the Employee
the benefits described herein shall be absolute and unconditional and shall not
be affected by any circumstances, including, without limitation, any set-off,
counter-claim, recoupment, defense or other right which the Employer may have
against the Employee or anyone else. All amounts payable by the Employer shall
be paid without notice or demand. Each and every payment made by the Employer
shall be final and the Employer will not seek to recover all or any part of such
payment(s) from the Employee or from whosoever may be entitled to such
payment(s) for any reason whatsoever. The Employee shall not be obligated to
seek other employment in mitigation of the amounts payable or arrangements made
under any provisions herein, and the obtaining of any such other employment
shall in no event effect any reduction of the Employer's or subsidiary's
obligations to make the payments and arrangements required to be made hereunder.
The Employer may at the discretion of the Board of Directors of the Employer
enter into an irrevocable, third party guarantee or similar agreement with a
bank or other institution with respect to the benefits payable to an Employee,
which would provide for the unconditional payment of such benefits by such
third-party upon presentment by an Employee of a Certificate (and on such other
conditions deemed necessary or desirable by the Employer) at some specified time
after termination of employment. Such third-party guarantor shall have no
liability for improper payment if it follows the instructions of the Employer as
provided in such Certificate and other documents required to be presented under
the agreement, unless the Employer, in a written notice, has previously advised
such third-party guarantor of the determination by its Board of Directors of
ineligibility of the Employee
5
<PAGE>
12. Successors. This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of
the Employee and his estate, the Employer and any applicable subsidiary and any
successor of the Employer or applicable subsidiary, but neither this Amendment
nor any rights arising under it may be assigned, pledged or disposed of in any
manner by the Employee or his beneficiary.
13. Other Agreements. Nothing in this paragraph is intended to result in set-off
of pension benefits, supplemental executive retirement benefits, disability
benefits, retiree benefits or any other plan benefits not directly provided as
termination or separation benefits.
14. Reimbursable Expenses. The Employer shall pay directly or reimburse the
Employee for the following expenses:
a. License fees and membership dues in associations or organizations
relative to the business of the Employer,
b. Subscriptions to journals or monthly service publications relative
to the business of the Employer.
c. The Employee's necessary travel, hotel, and entertainment expenses
incurred in connection with the business of the Employer or other
events that contribute to the benefit of the Employer in amounts to be
determined by the Board of Directors.
15. Noncompetition/Nonsolicitation. Employee, as additional material
consideration hereunder, agrees that during the term hereof and for a period of
five (5) years from termination of this Agreement, he will not directly or
indirectly solicit business from, engage in business with, or divert business
from any of Employer's current or future customers, and that they will not
participate as a shareholder, partner, employee, consultant, or otherwise in any
enterprise engaging in activities that would violate this provision if engaged
in by them directly. This covenant shall be applicable to the World on the basis
that Employer sells its products nationally or internationally. Employee
acknowledges and agrees that the scope of this covenant is reasonable given the
special relationship of the parties as to the various agreements executed by
them. Employee acknowledges and confirms that this covenant is made to induce
Employer to enter into this Agreement, is considered material to Employer, and
is required by Employer for the purpose of preserving the business and goodwill
of Employer.
16. Confidentiality Provision. Employee agrees that, during the term of this
Agreement or any extensions and for a period of ten (10) years thereafter, he
will keep confidential any information which he obtains from Employer or any of
6
<PAGE>
said entities' subsidiaries, sister corporations or concerns, now or hereafter
existing or created, concerning their properties, assets, proprietary assets,
source codes, copyrights, business methods, and trade secrets. Upon termination
hereof, Employee will return to Employer all written matter with respect to such
businesses obtained by him in connection with the negotiation, consummation, or
performance of this Agreement. Employee further agrees that any work performed
or created by Employee during the term hereof shall be owned solely by Employer
and shall be subject to the terms of this provision.
17. Modification. No change or modification of this Agreement shall be valid
unless the same be in writing and signed by all the parties hereto.
18. Binding Effect. The contract shall be binding upon the heirs, executors,
administrators, and assigns of the Employee and any successors in interest of
the Employer.
19. Notice. Except as expressly provided to the contrary herein, notices or
other communications required, permitted, or made necessary by the terms of this
Agreement may be given orally to the respective representatives of the Employer
and the Employee designed herein. Written notices shall be personally delivered
to the Employer's representative or the Employee's representative, as
appropriate or sent by the United States registered or certified mail, postage
prepaid, return receipt requested, addressed to the party as designated below.
Notices sent by mail shall be deemed made, delivered and received on the date of
the United States postmark thereon. Either party may change its address or
notice by giving notice of such change to the other party in the manner
specified in this section.
For purposes of notice the addresses of the parties shall be:
If to Employer:
HomeSeekers.com, Inc.
2241 Park Place, Suite E
Minden, NV 89423-8602.
If to Employee:
Doug Swanson
4350 Interlaken Court
Reno, NV 89509
20. No Waiver. No waiver of any breach or default in any of the terms and
provisions of this Agreement shall be deemed to constitute or be construed as a
waiver of the subsequent breach or default of the same, similar or dissimilar
nature.
21. Choice of Law and Invalidity. The validity, construction, performance and
effect of this Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of Nevada
7
<PAGE>
and jurisdiction shall vest exclusively in the Ninth Judicial District Court in
and for the State of Nevada, located in Douglas County. The parties acknowledge
and agree that this Agreement is executed and performance hereof is due in
Douglas County, State of Nevada. In case any one or more of the provisions
contained herein shall for any reason be held to be invalid, illegal, or
unenforceable in any respect, such invalidity, illegality, or unenforceability
shall not affect any other provisions of this Agreement, but this Agreement
shall be construed as if such invalid, illegal, or unenforceable provisions
contained herein shall, for any reason, be held to be excessively broad as to
time, duration, geographical scope, activity or subject, said provision shall be
construed by limiting and reducing it so as to be enforceable to the extent
compatible with the then applicable law, it being the intent of the parties
hereto to give the maximum permitted effect to the restrictions set forth
herein.
22. Assignment. This Agreement is one for personal services and the Employee
shall not have a right to assign any part or all of his respective rights,
duties or obligations hereunder.
23. Interpretation. If necessary to give effect to the terms and provisions
hereof, the masculine, feminine, and neuter gender in the singular and plural
number shall each be deemed to include the other whenever the context so
indicates.
24. Headings. Headings in this Agreement are inserted for convenience and
identification only and are in no way intended to describe, interpret, define or
limit the scope, extent or intent of this Agreement or any provision hereof.
25. Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts,
any of which may be constituted in the agreement between the parties hereto.
26. Authority. The Employer warrants and represents that it is a corporation
organized and existing under the laws of the State of Nevada, that the
undersigned is authorized to execute this Agreement on behalf of the Employer;
that the employment of the Employee under the terms of this Agreement has been
duly authorized by the Employer.
27. Inurement. Each covenant and condition in this Agreement shall be binding
on, and shall insure solely to the benefit of the parties to it, their
respective heirs, legal representatives successors and assigns.
28. Entire Agreement. Except as otherwise provided herein, this Agreement
supersedes any and all other agreements, either oral or in writing, between the
parties hereto and contains all of the covenants and agreements between the
parties with respect to this matter. Each party to this Agreement acknowledges
that no representations, inducements, promises, or agreements, orally or
otherwise, have been made by any party, or anyone acting on behalf of any party,
which are not embodied herein, and that no other agreement, statement or promise
not contained in this Agreement shall be binding.
8
<PAGE>
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Employment Agreement
effective as of the day and year first above written.
EMPLOYEE: EMPLOYER:
Doug Swanson HomeSeekers.com, Inc.
a Nevada Corporation,
By: /s/ Doug Swanson By: /s/ Greg Johnson
------------------- -----------------------------------
Greg Johnson, Chairman & CEO
By:/s/ John Giaimo
------------------
John Giaimo, President & COO
9
EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT
THIS EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT is entered into effective as of the 23rd day of
August 1999, notwithstanding the later execution hereof, by and between
HOMESEEKERS.COM, INC., a Nevada corporation ("Employer") and GREG COSTLEY
("Employee").
WITNESSETH:
In consideration of the mutual promises herein contained, the parties agree as
follows:
1. Employment Agreement. The Employer hereby agrees to employ Employee, and
Employee hereby agrees to serve as such Employee upon the terms and conditions
hereinafter set forth.
2. Term of Employment. Subject to the provisions for termination as hereinafter
provided, the term of the employment shall commence as of the date of this
Agreement and shall end three (3) years from that date on August 22, 2002. At
the end of the term hereof, this Agreement may be renewed by mutual agreement of
the parties.
3. Employee's Position and Duties. Employee agrees as follows:
a. Employee shall assume responsibility as directed by the Board of
Directors as Chief Executive Officer and President of Employer. Employee
shall be responsible for the management and supervision of Employer and
shall perform any other duties relating to Employer's operations that may
from time to time be assigned by the Board of Directors and governed by
the Bylaws of Employer, for the successful operation of Employer's
business.
b. It is contemplated that Employee shall also be Chairman of the Board of
Directors of Employer during the term of this Agreement, pursuant to the
Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws of Employer.
c. During the term of this Employment Agreement, Employee shall, in good
faith, devote his best efforts and full time to his employment and perform
diligently and in good faith such duties as are or may be from time to
time required by the Employer, which duties shall be consistent with his
position as set forth above; it being understood and acknowledged that,
the terms "best efforts" and "full time" mean such effort and time
commitment as is necessary to achieve the success of the business.
1
<PAGE>
d. Employee shall not, without the prior written consent of Employer,
directly or indirectly, during the term of this Agreement, whether for
compensation or otherwise, render services of a business, professional or
commercial nature to any person or firm that is engaged in a business
similar to that of the Employer.
e. The parties agree that during the performance of this Agreement
Employee shall relocate to Reno, Nevada and Employer shall not
require Employee to change his principal place of residence after this
relocation for any reason.
4. Compensation and Benefits. During the term of employment hereunder, Employer
shall compensate Employee as follows:
a. Salary. For all services he may render to Employer during the term of
this Agreement, Employee shall receive from Employer a base annual salary
while he is employed hereunder of Two Hundred Thousand Dollars ($200,000).
Salary is to be paid in accordance with the policy of Employer regarding
payment of salary to its other officers and directors.
b. Bonuses. A signing bonus of forty thousand dollars ($40,000) shall be
paid to Employee within two weeks from the date of this agreement.
Additional bonuses may be granted as seen fit by the Board of Directors.
c. Moving Expenses Reimbursement. Employee shall be reimbursed for
reasonable expenses to move him and his family from Bakersfield, CA to
Reno, NV not to exceed forty five thousand dollars ($45,000).
d. Stock Options. Employee shall also receive three hundred thousand stock
options to purchase Employer Common Stock. The price payable by Employee
for each share of stock shall be the market closing bid price on the date
of this agreement. This date is also the date of grant for Incentive Stock
Option purposes. These options vest as follows: 100,000 shares on this
Agreement date, 100,000 shares one year thereafter and the remaining
100,000 shares two years thereafter. Additionally, Employee shall receive
an additional 100,000 options for every ten-dollar ($10.00) rise in the
Employer's stock price from the closing bid price level as of the date of
the Agreement, and it stays at this level continuously for at least ninety
days thereafter. These additional stock options will be granted and priced
on the ninetieth day as described above. All stock options will have a
life of three years from vesting date. Upon involuntary termination or
change of control, as defined in this agreement, remaining options will
vest immediately.
e. Director's Compensation. During the time which Employee is a member of
the Board of Directors of Employer, and properly fulfills his duties
therefor, Employer shall provide or reimburse to Employee expenses
comparable to other Directors of Employer.
f. Benefits. Employee shall be entitled to receive medical and dental
insurance comparable to that offered to other employees of Employer. In
addition, Employee shall receive a monthly automobile allowance in the
amount of $600.
2
<PAGE>
5. Termination of Employment.
a. For Cause. The employment of Employee under this Employment Agreement,
and the term hereof, may be terminated by the Employer only upon a showing
of "Cause", upon thirty (30) days' written notice to Employee. The
"effective date of termination" shall be the date thirty (30) days after
written notice of termination is delivered to the Employee. "Cause" is
defined as follows:
i. A material act or omission in the course of Employee's duties that is
dishonest or fraudulent; or
ii. A material breach of this Agreement by Employee;
iii. Employee is not performing his duties adequately as Chief Executive
Officer and President, as determined by a majority of the Board of
Directors, with employee abstaining from the vote as Chairman.
b. Disability or Death. The employment of Employee under this Employment
Agreement and the term hereof, shall be terminated by the death or partial
or total disability of Employee. For purposes hereof, the term
"disability" is hereby defined to mean any mental or physical disability
which renders Employee unable to perform his duties or assignment as
determined by the Board of Directors of Employer, in the sole judgment and
discretion of said Board as determined by a majority vote of the members
thereof.
c. Resignation. The employment of Employee under this Employment
Agreement, and the term hereof, will be terminated by the voluntary
resignation of Employee.
6. Salary and Benefits Upon Termination. Except as specifically provided herein,
all salary and other benefits shall terminate as of the effective date of
termination if Employee resigns. If involuntarily terminated (except following a
Change in Control, as provided for below) and in consideration for the
obligations of Employee pursuant to paragraphs 15 and 16 of the Employment
Agreement, Employee shall be entitled to a termination or severance salary equal
to one (1) year of the annual base salary earned by Employee immediately prior
to termination. Employee shall have the option to accelerate payments of the
severance salary and receive the full amount upon termination, in Employee's
sole discretion. Unless precluded by law, any medical and dental insurance
coverage and benefits shall continue for thirty (30) days after termination or
until Employee is re-employed, whichever shall first occur.
7. Termination Following Change in Control. Employer will provide or cause to be
provided to Employee the rights and benefits described in Paragraph 9 below in
the event that Employee's employment is terminated at any time during the term
of this Agreement, or any renewal term, following a Change in Control (as such
term is defined in Paragraph 8) under circumstances stated in (a) or (b) below.
3
<PAGE>
a. The involuntary termination of Employee by Employer for reasons other
than for "Cause" (as such term is defined in Paragraph 5 of this
Agreement) or other than as a consequence of Employee's death, permanent
disability or attainment of the normal retirement date; or
b. The voluntary termination by Employee, which shall not result in a
breach of this Agreement, following the occurrence of any of the following
events:
i. the assignment to Employee of any duties or responsibilities that
are inconsistent with Employee's position, duties, responsibilities or
status immediately preceding such Change in Control, or a reduction of
Employee's responsibilities subsequent to the Change in Control;
ii. the reduction of Employee's annual salary (including any deferred
portions) or level of benefits or supplemental compensation;
iii. the transfer of Employee to a location requiring a change in
Employee's residence or a material increase in the amount of travel
normally required of Employee in connection with Employee's employment;
or
iv. the good faith determination by Employee that due to the Change in
Control (including any changes in circumstances at Employer that
directly or indirectly effect Employee's position, duties,
responsibilities or status immediately preceding such Change in
Control) he is no longer able effectively to discharge Employee's
duties and responsibilities.
8. Definition of Change of Control. For purposes of this Agreement, a "Change of
Control" shall be deemed to have taken place if:
a. a third person, including a "group" as defined in Section 13(d)(3) of
the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, becomes the beneficial owner of
shares of the Employer having more than fifty percent (50%) of the total
number of votes that may be cast by holders of capital stock upon any
corporate action proposed to shareholders for approval or adoption; or
b. as a result of, or in connection with, any cash tender or securities
exchange offer, merger, or other business combination, sale of assets or
contested election, or any combination of the foregoing transactions (a
"Transaction"), the persons who were directors of the Employer before the
Transaction shall cease to constitute a majority of the Board of the
Employer or any successor corporation.
9. Benefits Entitlements. On or before Employee's last day of employment with
the Employer or any of its subsidiaries, the Employer will pay to the Employee
as compensation for services rendered a lump sum cash amount (subject to any
applicable payroll or other taxes required to be withheld) equal to the sum of,
4
<PAGE>
a. Employees' highest annual salary fixed during the period he was an
employee of the Employer, plus
b. the largest aggregate amount awarded to Employee in a year as cash
bonus (whether or not deferred) under the Corporation's short and long
term cash incentive plans or arrangements providing for performance bonus
payments during the preceding years.
10. Taxes. In the event a tax is imposed pursuant to Section 4999 of the
Internal Revenue Code ("Excise Tax") on any portion of a benefit payment made to
an Employee in accordance with Paragraph 9, Employer shall relieve the Employee
of the Excise Tax burden by paying;
a. the initial Excise Tax and
b. any additional Excise Tax and federal and state income tax which arise
as a result of Employer's payment of the initial Excise Tax on behalf of
the Employee.
11. Payment Obligations Absolute. The Employer's obligation to pay the Employee
the benefits described herein shall be absolute and unconditional and shall not
be affected by any circumstances, including, without limitation, any set-off,
counter-claim, recoupment, defense or other right which the Employer may have
against the Employee or anyone else. All amounts payable by the Employer shall
be paid without notice or demand. Each and every payment made by the Employer
shall be final and the Employer will not seek to recover all or any part of such
payment(s) from the Employee or from whosoever may be entitled to such
payment(s) for any reason whatsoever. The Employee shall not be obligated to
seek other employment in mitigation of the amounts payable or arrangements made
under any provisions herein, and the obtaining of any such other employment
shall in no event effect any reduction of the Employer's or subsidiary's
obligations to make the payments and arrangements required to be made hereunder.
The Employer may at the discretion of the Board of Directors of the Employer
enter into an irrevocable, third party guarantee or similar agreement with a
bank or other institution with respect to the benefits payable to an Employee,
which would provide for the unconditional payment of such benefits by such
third-party upon presentment by an Employee of a Certificate (and on such other
conditions deemed necessary or desirable by the Employer) at some specified time
after termination of employment. Such third-party guarantor shall have no
liability for improper payment if it follows the instructions of the Employer as
provided in such Certificate and other documents required to be presented under
the agreement, unless the Employer, in a written notice, has previously advised
such third-party guarantor of the determination by its Board of Directors of
ineligibility of the Employee
12. Successors. This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of
the Employee and his estate, the Employer and any applicable subsidiary and any
successor of the Employer or applicable subsidiary, but neither this Amendment
nor any rights arising under it may be assigned, pledged or disposed of in any
manner by the Employee or his beneficiary.
5
<PAGE>
13. Other Agreements. Nothing in this paragraph is intended to result in set-off
of pension benefits, supplemental executive retirement benefits, disability
benefits, retiree benefits or any other plan benefits not directly provided as
termination or separation benefits.
14. Reimbursable Expenses. The Employer shall pay directly or reimburse the
Employee for the following expenses:
a. License fees and membership dues in associations or organizations
relative to the business of the Employer,
b. Subscriptions to journals or monthly service publications relative to
the business of the Employer.
c. The Employee's necessary travel, hotel, and entertainment expenses
incurred in connection with the business of the Employer or other events
that contribute to the benefit of the Employer in amounts to be determined
by the Board of Directors.
15. Noncompetition/Nonsolicitation. Employee, as additional material
consideration hereunder, agrees that during the term hereof and for a period of
two (2) years from termination of this Agreement, he will not directly or
indirectly solicit business from, engage in business with, or divert business
from any of Employer's current or future customers, and that they will not
participate as a shareholder, partner, employee, consultant, or otherwise in any
enterprise engaging in activities that would violate this provision if engaged
in by them directly. This covenant shall be applicable to the World on the basis
that Employer sells its products nationally or internationally. Employee
acknowledges and agrees that the scope of this covenant is reasonable given the
special relationship of the parties as to the various agreements executed by
them. Employee acknowledges and confirms that this covenant is made to induce
Employer to enter into this Agreement, is considered material to Employer, and
is required by Employer for the purpose of preserving the business and goodwill
of Employer.
16. Confidentiality Provision. Employee agrees that, during the term of this
Agreement or any extensions and for a period of ten (10) years thereafter, he
will keep confidential any information which he obtains from Employer or any of
said entities' subsidiaries, sister corporations or concerns, now or hereafter
existing or created, concerning their properties, assets, proprietary assets,
source codes, copyrights, business methods, and trade secrets. Upon termination
hereof, Employee will return to Employer all written matter with respect to such
businesses obtained by him in connection with the negotiation, consummation, or
performance of this Agreement. Employee further agrees that any work performed
or created by Employee during the term hereof shall be owned solely by Employer
and shall be subject to the terms of this provision.
6
<PAGE>
17. Modification. No change or modification of this Agreement shall be valid
unless the same is in writing and signed by all the parties hereto.
18. Binding Effect. The contract shall be binding upon the heirs, executors,
administrators, and assigns of the Employee and any successors in interest of
the Employer.
19. Notice. Except as expressly provided to the contrary herein, notices or
other communications required, permitted, or made necessary by the terms of this
Agreement may be given orally to the respective representatives of the Employer
and the Employee designed herein. Written notices shall be personally delivered
to the Employer's representative or the Employee's representative, as
appropriate or sent by the United States registered or certified mail, postage
prepaid, return receipt requested, addressed to the party as designated below.
Notices sent by mail shall be deemed made, delivered and received on the date of
the United States postmark thereon. Either party may change its address or
notice by giving notice of such change to the other party in the manner
specified in this section.
For purposes of notice the addresses of the parties shall be:
If to Employer:
HomeSeekers.com, Inc.
2241 Park Place, Suite E
Minden, NV 89423-8602.
If to Employee:
Greg Costley
1515 McPherson Lane
Bakersfield, CA 93311
20. No Waiver. No waiver of any breach or default in any of the terms and
provisions of this Agreement shall be deemed to constitute or be construed as a
waiver of the subsequent breach or default of the same, similar or dissimilar
nature.
21. Choice of Law and Invalidity. The validity, construction, performance and
effect of this Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of Nevada
and jurisdiction shall vest exclusively in the Ninth Judicial District Court in
and for the State of Nevada, located in Douglas County. The parties acknowledge
and agree that this Agreement is executed and performance hereof is due in
Douglas County, State of Nevada. In case any one or more of the provisions
contained herein shall for any reason be held to be invalid, illegal, or
unenforceable in any respect, such invalidity, illegality, or unenforceability
shall not affect any other provisions of this Agreement, but this Agreement
shall be construed as if such invalid, illegal, or unenforceable provisions
contained herein shall, for any reason, be held to be excessively broad as to
time, duration, geographical scope, activity or subject, said provision shall be
construed by limiting and reducing it so as to be enforceable to the extent
compatible with the then applicable law, it being the intent of the parties
hereto to give the maximum permitted effect to the restrictions set forth
herein.
7
<PAGE>
22. Assignment. This Agreement is one for personal services and the Employee
shall not have a right to assign any part or all of his respective rights,
duties or obligations hereunder.
23. Interpretation. If necessary to give effect to the terms and provisions
hereof, the masculine, feminine, and neuter gender in the singular and plural
number shall each be deemed to include the other whenever the context so
indicates.
24. Headings. Headings in this Agreement are inserted for convenience and
identification only and are in no way intended to describe, interpret, define or
limit the scope, extent or intent of this Agreement or any provision hereof
25. Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts,
any of which may be constituted in the agreement between the parties hereto.
26. Authority. The Employer warrants and represents that it is a corporation
organized and existing under the laws of the State of Nevada, that the
undersigned is authorized to execute this Agreement on behalf of the Employer;
that the employment of the Employee under the terms of this Agreement has been
duly authorized by the Employer.
27. Inurement. Each covenant and condition in this Agreement shall be binding
on, and shall insure solely to the benefit of the parties to it, their
respective heirs, legal representatives successors and assigns.
28. Entire Agreement. Except as otherwise provided herein, this Agreement
supersedes any and all other agreements, either oral or in writing, between the
parties hereto and contains all of the covenants and agreements between the
parties with respect to this matter. Each party to this Agreement acknowledges
that no representations, inducements, promises, or agreements, orally or
otherwise, have been made by any party, or anyone acting on behalf of any party,
which are not embodied herein, and that no other agreement, statement or promise
not contained in this Agreement shall be binding.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Employment Agreement
effective as of the day and year first above written.
EMPLOYEE: EMPLOYER:
Greg Costley HomeSeekers.com, Inc.
a Nevada Corporation,
/s/ Greg Costley By /s/Greg Johnson
------------------------------ -------------------------------
Greg Johnson, Chairman
8
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SUBSIDIARIES OF REGISTRANT
STATE OF NAME UNDER WHICH
NAME INCORPORATION BUSINESS IS CONDUCTED
---- ------------- ---------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Visual Listings, Inc. California Inactive Corporation
Focus Publications, Inc. Nevada Inactive Corporation
Holloway Publications, Inc. Indiana Holloway Publications
</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<ARTICLE> 5
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> 12-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> JUN-30-1999
<PERIOD-START> JUL-01-1998
<PERIOD-END> JUN-30-1999
<CASH> 10,617,000
<SECURITIES> 0
<RECEIVABLES> 1,893,000
<ALLOWANCES> 38,000
<INVENTORY> 0
<CURRENT-ASSETS> 12,906,000
<PP&E> 2,033,000
<DEPRECIATION> 863,000
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 16,889,000
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES> 3,816,000
<BONDS> 0
0
0
<COMMON> 14,946
<OTHER-SE> 12,675,000
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY> 16,889,000
<SALES> 3,419,000
<TOTAL-REVENUES> 3,419,000
<CGS> 567,000
<TOTAL-COSTS> 8,009,000
<OTHER-EXPENSES> 44,000
<LOSS-PROVISION> 0
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 31,000
<INCOME-PRETAX> (4,840,000)
<INCOME-TAX> (2,000)
<INCOME-CONTINUING> (4,842,000)
<DISCONTINUED> 0
<EXTRAORDINARY> 0
<CHANGES> 0
<NET-INCOME> (4,842,000)
<EPS-BASIC> (0.53)
<EPS-DILUTED> (0.53)
</TABLE>
