boston properties, inc. (the "company"), a self-administered and self-managed real estate investment trust (reit), is one of the largest owners, managers, and developers of first-class office properties in the united states, with a significant presence in four markets: boston, new york, san francisco, and washington, dc. the company was founded in 1970 by mortimer b. zuckerman and edward h. linde in boston, where it maintains its headquarters. boston properties became a public company in june 1997. the company acquires, develops, and manages its properties through full-service regional offices. its property portfolio is comprised primarily of first-class office space, one hotel, two residential properties and five retail properties. boston properties is well-known for its in-house building management expertise and responsiveness to tenants' needs. the company holds a superior track record in developing premium central business district (cbd) office buildings, suburban office centers