Essex Property Trust Inc (ESS)vsSun Communities Inc (SUI)
ESS
Essex Property Trust Inc
$242.55
+0.98%
REAL ESTATE · Cap: $16.61B
SUI
Sun Communities Inc
$129.01
-1.10%
REAL ESTATE · Cap: $16.70B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Sun Communities Inc generates 19% more annual revenue ($2.30B vs $1.94B). SUI leads profitability with a 59.2% profit margin vs 34.6%. ESS appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 6.86. 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
-279.1%
Fair Value
$68.95
Current Price
$242.54
$173.59 premium
Intrinsic value data unavailable for SUI.
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Keeps 35 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Strong operational efficiency at 32.9%
Reasonable price relative to book value
Keeps 59 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Reasonable price relative to book value
Areas to Watch
3.2% revenue growth
Expensive relative to growth rate
Earnings declined 68.7%
3.4% revenue growth
ROE of 1.0% — below average capital efficiency
Weak financial health signals
Expensive relative to growth rate
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : ESS
The strongest argument for ESS centers on Profit Margin, Operating Margin, Price/Book. Profitability is solid with margins at 34.6% and operating margin at 32.9%.
Bull Case : SUI
The strongest argument for SUI centers on Profit Margin, Price/Book. Profitability is solid with margins at 59.2% and operating margin at 15.5%.
Bear Case : ESS
The primary concerns for ESS are Revenue Growth, PEG Ratio, EPS Growth.
Bear Case : SUI
The primary concerns for SUI are Revenue Growth, Return on Equity, Piotroski F-Score.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
SUI carries more volatility with a beta of 0.88 — expect wider price swings.
SUI is growing revenue faster at 3.4% — sustainability is the question.
ESS generates stronger free cash flow (195M), 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 34.6% margins. 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 leading real estate investment trust (REIT) focused on the ownership, operation, and development of manufactured housing and recreational vehicle (RV) communities across the United States and Ontario, Canada. With a diverse portfolio exceeding 600 properties, Sun Communities prioritizes reliable rental income generation while enhancing tenant living experiences through strategic acquisitions and community improvements. The company’s commitment to sustainable practices and responsible land management positions it favorably for long-term growth, appealing to institutional investors seeking stability and value in an evolving housing market.
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