In conjunction with the Spin-Off and IPO, notes payable to certain former stockholders of MMREIS were issued in settlement of restricted stock and SARs awards that were redeemed by MMREIS upon the termination of employment by the former stockholders (“the Notes”). Such notes had been previously assumed by MMC, and were transferred to the Company. The Notes are unsecured and bear interest at 5% with annual principal and interest installments with a final principal payment due during the second quarter of 2020. During each of the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016, the Company made total payments on the Notes of $1.5 million, including principal and interest.

Accrued interest included in accounts payable and accrued expenses in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets pertaining to the Notes consisted of the following (in thousands):

Interest expense pertaining to the Notes consisted of the following (in thousands):