Essex Property Trust Inc (ESS)vsSun Communities Inc (SUI)
ESS
Essex Property Trust Inc
$298.33
+0.29%
REAL ESTATE · Cap: $19.41B
SUI
Sun Communities Inc
$123.63
+0.82%
REAL ESTATE · Cap: $15.33B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Sun Communities Inc generates 19% more annual revenue ($2.34B vs $1.97B). SUI leads profitability with a 59.7% profit margin vs 29.1%. ESS appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 7.39. ESS earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 53/100 (C-).
ESS
Buy53
out of 100
Grade: C-
SUI
Hold48
out of 100
Grade: D+
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
+35.0%
Fair Value
$402.15
Current Price
$298.33
$103.82 discount
Margin of Safety
+39.2%
Fair Value
$210.29
Current Price
$123.63
$86.66 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Strong operational efficiency at 35.2%
Keeps 29 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Keeps 60 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Every $100 of equity generates 20 in profit
Reasonable price relative to book value
Areas to Watch
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Elevated debt levels
Expensive relative to growth rate
Earnings declined 47.8%
Expensive relative to growth rate
Earnings declined 97.1%
Distress zone — elevated risk
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : ESS
The strongest argument for ESS centers on Operating Margin, Profit Margin. Profitability is solid with margins at 29.1% and operating margin at 35.2%.
Bull Case : SUI
The strongest argument for SUI centers on Profit Margin, Return on Equity, Price/Book. Profitability is solid with margins at 59.7% and operating margin at 13.4%.
Bear Case : ESS
The primary concerns for ESS are P/E Ratio, Debt/Equity, PEG Ratio.
Bear Case : SUI
The primary concerns for SUI are PEG Ratio, EPS Growth, Altman Z-Score.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
SUI carries more volatility with a beta of 0.79 — expect wider price swings.
SUI is growing revenue faster at 8.6% — sustainability is the question.
SUI generates stronger free cash flow (269M), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor REIT - RESIDENTIAL industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
ESS scores higher overall (53/100 vs 48/100), backed by strong 29.1% margins. SUI offers better value entry with a 39.2% margin of safety. Both earn "Buy" and "Hold" ratings respectively — the choice depends on your investment horizon and risk tolerance.
This analysis is generated from publicly available financial data. Not financial advice.
Essex Property Trust Inc
REAL ESTATE · REIT - RESIDENTIAL · USA
Essex Property Trust is a publicly traded real estate investment trust that invests in apartments, primarily on the West Coast of the United States.
Sun Communities Inc
REAL ESTATE · REIT - RESIDENTIAL · USA
Sun Communities Inc. (SUI) is a premier real estate investment trust (REIT) specializing in the acquisition, development, and management of manufactured housing and recreational vehicle (RV) communities throughout the United States and Canada. With a robust portfolio of over 600 properties, the company is dedicated to generating long-term value by delivering consistent rental income while enhancing tenant experiences through focused community improvements. Sun Communities' strategic emphasis on sustainability and responsible land stewardship not only aligns with evolving housing trends but also positions it as an attractive investment for institutional investors seeking stability and growth in the affordable housing sector.
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