UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
ý QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15 (d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the Quarterly Period Ended June 30, 2005
or
o TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15 (d)
Commission File Number 001-12822
BEAZER HOMES USA, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
DELAWARE
58-2086934
(State or other jurisdiction of
(I.R.S. employer
incorporation or organization)
Identification no.)
1000 Abernathy Road, Suite 1200, Atlanta, Georgia 30328
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)
(770) 829-3700
(Registrants telephone number, including area code)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Sections 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding twelve months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to the filing requirements for the past 90 days.
YES
ý
NO
o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an accelerated filer (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
Class
Outstanding at July 25, 2005
Common Stock, $0.001 par value
41,670,858 shares
INDEX
PART I
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEM 1
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, June 30, 2005 and September 30, 2004
Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations, Three and Nine Months Ended June 30, 2005 and 2004
Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, Nine Months Ended June 30, 2005 and 2004
Unaudited Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income, Three and Nine Months Ended June 30, 2005 and 2004
Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
ITEM 2
MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS
ITEM 3
QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
ITEM 4
CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
ITEM 6
EXHIBITS
SIGNATURES
2
Part I. Financial Information
Item 1. Financial Statements
UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(in thousands, except share and per share data)
June 30,
September 30,
2005
2004
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents
$
8,098
320,880
Accounts receivable
133,617
70,574
Inventory
Owned inventory
2,762,962
2,089,330
Consolidated inventory not owned
224,032
254,765
Total inventory
2,986,994
2,344,095
Investments in and advances to unconsolidated joint ventures
72,980
44,748
Deferred tax assets
46,698
47,052
Property, plant and equipment, net
27,861
24,671
Goodwill
121,368
251,603
Other assets, net
70,050
45,839
Total assets
3,467,666
3,149,462
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS EQUITY
Trade accounts payable
210,973
123,287
Other payables and accrued liabilities
499,113
437,608
Obligations related to consolidated inventory not owned
173,202
219,042
Term loan
200,000
Senior notes (net of discount of $18,960 and $14,663 respectively)
1,211,040
915,337
Other notes payable
39,459
22,067
Total liabilities
2,133,787
1,917,341
Stockholders equity:
Preferred stock (par value $.01 per share, 5,000,000 shares authorized, no shares issued)
Common stock (par value $.001 and $.01 per share, 80,000,000 shares authorized, 41,670,858 and 53,605,047 issued and 41,670,858 and 41,191,419 outstanding, respectively)
42
536
Paid-in capital
517,863
593,392
Retained earnings
830,095
741,701
Treasury stock (0 and 12,413,628 shares)
(88,150
)
Unearned compensation
(14,121
(14,748
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
(610
Total stockholders equity
1,333,879
1,232,121
Total liabilities and stockholders equity
See Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
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UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(in thousands, except per share amounts)
Three Months Ended
Nine Months Ended
Total revenue
1,293,227
1,009,279
3,181,302
2,695,968
Costs and expenses:
Home construction and land sales
963,699
801,865
2,456,111
2,145,834
Selling, general and administrative
150,891
111,176
363,555
300,400
Goodwill impairment charge
130,235
Operating income
178,637
96,238
231,401
249,734
Equity in income of unconsolidated joint ventures
2,951
813
3,150
1,748
Other income, net
987
786
4,987
3,803
Income before income taxes
182,575
97,837
239,538
255,285
Provision for income taxes
69,835
38,157
141,438
99,561
Net income
112,740
59,680
98,100
155,724
Weighted average number of shares (1):
Basic
40,497
39,960
40,400
39,932
Diluted
45,666
42,350
45,510
41,740
Net income per common share (1):
2.78
1.49
2.43
3.90
2.50
1.42
2.24
3.74
Cash dividends per share (1)
0.10
0.03
0.23
(1) Share and per share amounts for prior periods have been retroactively adjusted to reflect the effect of the Companys March 2005 three-for-one stock split.
4
UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(in thousands)
Cash flows from operating activities:
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash used in operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization
15,311
12,100
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated joint ventures
(3,150
(1,748
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
(Increase) decrease in accounts receivable
(63,043
19,321
Increase in inventory
(659,280
(442,822
Increase in other assets
(24,211
(25,050
Increase in trade accounts payable
19,607
27,582
Increase in other liabilities
62,846
36,027
Other changes
2,181
3,027
Net cash used in operating activities
(421,404
(215,839
Cash flows from investing activities:
Capital expenditures
(10,675
(7,567
Investments in unconsolidated joint ventures
(63,382
(7,167
Distributions from unconsolidated joint ventures
35,660
4,989
Net cash used in investing activities
(38,397
(9,745
Cash flows from financing activities:
Repayment of other notes payable
(9,443
Net change in bank overdraft
68,079
Proceeds from Term Loan
Repayment of Term Loan
(200,000
Proceeds from 6 7/8% Senior Notes
294,528
Proceeds from 6 1/2% Senior Notes
198,100
Proceeds from 4 5/8% Convertible Senior Notes
174,600
Proceeds from stock option exercises
3,561
1,749
Common share repurchases
(17,546
Dividends paid
(9,706
(4,091
Debt issuance costs
(973
Net cash provided by financing activities
147,019
351,839
(Decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents
(312,782
126,255
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
73,372
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
199,627
Supplemental cash flow information:
Interest paid
102,863
62,272
Income taxes paid
144,300
116,299
Supplemental disclosures of non-cash activities:
177,841
Land purchased through issuance of note payable
26,680
8,723
5
UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS
OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
Other comprehensive income:
Unrealized gain on interest rate swaps, net of related taxes
880
610
2,192
Comprehensive income
60,560
98,710
157,916
6
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(1) Basis of Presentation
The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements of Beazer Homes USA, Inc. (Beazer Homes or the Company) have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for interim financial information and in accordance with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Such financial statements do not include all of the information and disclosures required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for complete financial statements. In the Companys opinion, all adjustments (consisting solely of normal recurring accruals) necessary for a fair presentation have been included in the accompanying financial statements. Certain items in prior period financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the current presentation. For further information, refer to the Companys audited consolidated financial statements appearing in Beazer Homes Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2004.
At the annual stockholders meeting held on February 3, 2005, the Companys stockholders approved an amendment to the Companys certificate of incorporation to increase the number of authorized shares of common stock from 30 million to 80 million shares and to change the par value of the common stock to $0.001 per share. The Companys Board of Directors subsequently approved a three-for-one stock split in February 2005. The stock split was effected in the form of a stock dividend paid on March 22, 2005 to stockholders of record at the close of business on March 10, 2005. All share and per share amounts (except par value) have been retroactively adjusted to reflect the split. There was no net effect on stockholders equity as a result of the stock split.
(2) Goodwill Impairment Charge
During the quarter ended March 31, 2005, the Company recorded a $130.2 million non-cash, non tax-deductible impairment charge to write off substantially all of the goodwill allocated to certain underperforming markets in Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky and Charlotte, North Carolina. The goodwill had been recorded as a result of the April 2002 acquisition of Crossmann Communities. The fair value of each reporting unit is determined based on expected discounted future cash flows. The forecasts and valuations of the respective divisions, along with weaker than anticipated local economies, particularly in the Midwest markets, and severe price competition, particularly at entry level price points, led the Company to conclude the goodwill was impaired in accordance with the provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 142.
(3) Stock-Based Compensation
The Company accounts for stock awards granted to employees under the recognition and measurement principles of Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees, and related Interpretations. No compensation expense is recognized for stock options granted to employees because all stock options granted have exercise prices not less than the market value of the Companys stock on the date of the grant. Restricted stock granted to employees is valued based on the market price of the common stock on the date of the grant.
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The Company accounts for stock awards issued to non-employees under the recognition and measurement principles of SFAS No. 123, Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation and Emerging Issues Task Force Issue No. 96-18: Accounting for Equity Instruments That Are Issued to Other Than Employees for Acquiring, or in Conjunction with Selling, Goods or Services. Stock options issued to non-employees are valued using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. Restricted stock granted to non-employees is initially valued based on the market price of the common stock on the date of the grant.
Unearned compensation arising from the restricted stock granted to employees and from non-employee stock awards is amortized to expense using the straight-line method over the period of the restrictions. The balance of unearned compensation related to non-employee awards is adjusted on a quarterly basis to reflect changes in the market value of Beazer Homes common stock. Unearned compensation is shown as a reduction of stockholders equity in the condensed consolidated balance sheets.
The following table illustrates the effect (in thousands, except per share amounts) on net income and earnings per share if the Company had applied the fair value recognition provisions of SFAS No. 123 to stock-based employee compensation:
Net income, as reported
Add: Stock-based employee compensation expense included in reported net income, net of related tax effects
2,073
1,209
5,172
3,316
Deduct: Total stock-based employee compensation expense determined under fair value based method for all awards, net of related tax effects
(2,868
(2,034
(7,890
(5,500
Pro forma net income
111,945
58,855
95,382
153,540
Earnings per share (1):
Basic - as reported
Basic - pro forma
2.76
1.47
2.36
3.85
Diluted - as reported
Diluted - pro forma
2.49
1.41
2.20
3.73
In December 2004, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued SFAS 123(R) Share-Based Payment. SFAS 123(R) requires the fair value of all share based payment transactions to be recognized in the financial statements. As a result, upon adoption of SFAS 123(R), Beazer Homes will be required to recognize compensation expense for the fair value of employee stock options over the applicable vesting period. The Company is currently assessing the impact of SFAS 123(R) on its condensed consolidated financial statements. The Company does not expect SFAS 123(R) to significantly change its accounting for restricted stock awards or non-employee stock awards.
8
SFAS 123(R) is effective as of the beginning of the first fiscal year that begins after June 15, 2005, or October 1, 2005, the first day of Beazer Homes 2006 fiscal year. SFAS 123(R) applies to new awards and to awards modified, repurchased, or cancelled after the required effective date, as well as to the unvested portion of awards outstanding as of the required effective date (modified prospective application). Upon adoption, prior periods may be, but are not required to be, restated.
In March 2005, the Securities and Exchange Commission released SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin (SAB) No. 107, Share-Based Payment. SAB No. 107 provides the SEC staffs position regarding the implementation of SFAS No. 123(R). SAB No. 107 contains interpretive guidance related to the interaction between SFAS No. 123(R) and certain SEC rules and regulations, as well as provides the staffs views regarding the valuation of share-based payment transactions. The Company will be incorporating SAB No. 107 as part of its adoption of SFAS No. 123(R).
(4) Inventory
Inventory consists of (in thousands):
Homes under construction
1,231,403
847,517
Development projects in progress
1,373,636
1,105,933
Unimproved land held for future development
93,599
57,563
Model homes
64,324
78,317
Homes under construction includes homes finished and ready for delivery and homes in various stages of construction. Excluding model homes, Beazer Homes had 312 completed homes (valued at $49.2 million) and 345 completed homes (valued at $51.3 million) at June 30, 2005 and September 30, 2004, respectively, that were not subject to a sales contract.
Development projects in progress consist principally of land and land improvement costs. Certain of the fully developed lots in this category are reserved by a deposit or sales contract.
Beazer Homes acquires certain lots by means of option contracts. Option contracts generally require the payment of cash for the right to acquire lots during a specified period of time at a certain price. Under option contracts, both with and without specific performance provisions, purchase of the properties is contingent upon satisfaction of certain requirements by the Company and the sellers. Beazer Homes obligation with respect to options with specific performance provisions is included on the Companys condensed consolidated balance sheets in other payables and accrued liabilities. Under option contracts without specific performance obligations, the Companys liability is generally limited to forfeiture of the non-refundable deposits, letters of credit and other non-refundable amounts incurred, which aggregated approximately $276.1 million at June 30, 2005. This amount includes letters of credit of approximately $39.1 million.
9
Below is a summary of amounts, net of cash deposits, committed under all options at June 30, 2005 (in thousands):
AggregateExercise Priceof Options
Options with specific performance
14,695
Options without specific performance
2,510,208
Total options
2,524,903
Certain of the Companys option contracts are with sellers who are deemed to be Variable Interest Entities (VIEs) under FASB Revised Interpretation No. 46, Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities, an Interpretation of ARB No. 51 (FIN 46R). FIN 46R defines a VIE as an entity with insufficient equity investment to finance its planned activities without additional financial support or an entity in which the equity investors lack certain characteristics of a controlling financial interest. Pursuant to FIN 46R, an enterprise that absorbs a majority of the expected losses or receives a majority of the expected residual returns of a VIE is deemed to be the primary beneficiary of the VIE and must consolidate the VIE.
Beazer Homes has determined that it is the primary beneficiary of certain of these option contracts. Beazer Homes risk is generally limited to the option deposits that the Company pays, and creditors of the sellers generally have no recourse to the general credit of the Company. Although Beazer Homes does not have legal title to the optioned land, for those option contracts for which the Company is the primary beneficiary, the Company is required to consolidate the land under option at fair value. Beazer Homes believes that the exercise prices of the option contracts approximate their fair value. The Companys consolidated balance sheets at June 30, 2005 and September 30, 2004 reflect consolidated inventory not owned of $224.0 million and $254.8 million, respectively. Obligations related to consolidated inventory not owned totaled $173.2 million at June 30, 2005 and $219.0 million at September 30, 2004. The difference between the balances of consolidated inventory not owned and obligations related to consolidated inventory not owned represents cash deposits paid under the option agreements. The above disclosures of amounts committed under options include the Companys obligations related to consolidated inventory not owned.
(5) Investments in and Advances to Unconsolidated Joint Ventures
Beazer Homes participates in a number of land development joint ventures in which the Company has less than a controlling interest. The Companys joint ventures are generally entered into with developers and other homebuilders to develop finished lots for sale to the joint ventures members and other third parties. The Companys interest in these joint ventures is accounted for under the equity method. The Company recognizes its share of profits from the sale of lots to other buyers. The Companys share of joint venture profits from lots purchased from the joint ventures is deferred and treated as a reduction of the cost of the land purchased from the joint venture. Such profits are subsequently recognized at the time the home closes and title passes to the homebuyer.
Beazer Homes joint ventures typically obtain secured acquisition and development financing. In some instances, Beazer Homes and the joint venture partners have provided varying levels of guarantees of debt of certain
10
unconsolidated joint ventures. At June 30, 2005 the Company had repayment guarantees of $10.4 million and loan-to-value maintenance guarantees of $66.7 million related to debt of unconsolidated joint ventures. Repayment guarantees require the Company to repay its share of debt of unconsolidated joint ventures in the event the joint venture defaults on its obligations under the loans. Loan-to-value maintenance guarantees only apply if an unconsolidated joint venture defaults on its loan arrangements and the value of the collateral is less than a specified percentage of the loan balance. If the Company is required to repay its share of the ventures borrowings to the extent such borrowings exceed a specified percentage of the value of the property securing the loan, the payment would be a capital contribution or loan to the venture. At June 30, 2005 there were no funding obligations related to any loan-to-value maintenance guarantees.
(6) Interest
The following table sets forth certain information regarding interest (in thousands):
Capitalized interest in inventory, beginning of period
52,280
40,814
44,121
34,285
Interest incurred and capitalized
22,798
19,469
64,269
54,872
Capitalized interest amortized to cost of sales
(21,568
(17,309
(54,880
(46,183
Capitalized interest in inventory, end of period
53,510
42,974
(7) Earnings Per Share
Basic and diluted earnings per share were calculated as follows (in thousands, except per share amounts):
Basic:
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding
Basic earnings per share
Diluted:
Interest on convertible debt - net of taxes
1,331
301
3,993
Net income available to common shareholders
114,071
59,981
102,093
156,025
Effect of dilutive securities:
Shares issuable upon conversion of convertible debt
3,499
820
204
Restricted stock
1,063
792
1,025
775
Options to acquire common stock
607
778
586
829
Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding
Diluted earnings per share
Basic and diluted earnings per share amounts and weighted average shares outstanding for prior periods have been retroactively restated to reflect the effect of the Companys March 2005 three-for-one stock split.
11
In September 2004 the Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF) of the FASB reached a consensus on EITF Issue No. 04-8: The Effect of Contingently Convertible Debt on Diluted Earnings Per Share (EITF 04-8). The consensus was ratified by the FASB in October 2004. EITF 04-8 requires that shares issuable upon conversion of contingently convertible debt instruments (Co-Cos) be included in diluted earnings per share computations using the if-converted method regardless of whether the issuers stock price exceeds the contingent conversion price. Prior to EITF 04-8, shares issuable upon conversion of Co-Cos were generally excluded from diluted earnings per share computations until the issuers stock price exceeded the contingent conversion price. EITF 04-8, which applies to the Companys 4 5/8 % Convertible Senior Notes issued in June 2004, was effective beginning with the first quarter of Beazer Homes 2005 fiscal year. Restatement of prior period earnings per share amounts presented for comparative purposes is required. The 4 5/8% Convertible Senior Notes were outstanding for a portion of the quarter ended June 30, 2004. Diluted earnings per share have been retroactively restated to reflect the effect of the adoption of EITF 04-8 for the three and nine months ended June 30, 2004. The impact of this adoption reduced diluted earnings per share by $0.02 for the quarter ended June 30, 2004 and $0.01 for the nine months ended June 30, 2004.
(8) Long Term Debt
The Company has a credit facility (the Credit Facility) with a group of banks. The Credit Facility included a $550 million four-year revolving credit facility (the Revolving Credit Facility) and a $200 million four-year term loan (the Term Loan). The Term Loan was repaid during the quarter ended June 30, 2005 with a portion of the proceeds from the Companys $300 million 6 7/8% Senior Notes discussed below. The Revolving Credit Facility matures in June 2008. The Revolving Credit Facility bears interest at a variable rate based upon LIBOR or the alternate base rate of interest announced by the lead bank. The Credit Facility contains various operating and financial covenants.
Available borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility are limited to certain percentages of homes under contract, unsold homes, substantially improved lots, lots under development, entitled raw land, and accounts receivable. At June 30, 2005, the Company had no borrowings outstanding under the Revolving Credit Facility, and had available borrowings of $453.0 million under the Revolving Credit Facility.
In June 2005, the Company issued $300 million aggregate principal amount of 6 7/8% Senior Notes due July 2015 (the 6 7/8% Senior Notes) in a private placement pursuant to Rule 144A and Regulation S, promulgated under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. The 6 7/8% Senior Notes were issued at a price of 99.096% of their face amount (before underwriting discount and other issuance costs). In July 2005, the Company issued an additional $50 million aggregate principal amount of the 6 7/8% Senior Notes in a private placement pursuant to Rule 144A, promulgated under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. The additional $50 million of 6 7/8% Senior Notes was issued at a price of 99.976% of their face amount (before underwriting discount and other issuance costs) and accrue interest from June 8, 2005 (the date of the original issuance of the 6 7/8% Senior Notes). Interest on the 6 7/8% Senior Notes is payable semi-annually. Beazer Homes may, at the Companys option, redeem the 6 7/8% Senior Notes in whole or in part at any time after July 2010, initially at 103.438% of the principal amount, declining to 100% of the principal amount after July 2013. The Company may redeem the 6 7/8% Senior Notes, in whole or in part, at any time before July 2010 at a redemption price equal to the principal amount thereof plus a make-whole premium, plus accrued and unpaid interest. A portion of such notes may also be redeemed prior to July 2008 under certain conditions.
12
In November 2003, the Company issued $200 million aggregate principal amount of 6 ½% Senior Notes due November 2013 (the Original 2003 Notes) in a private placement pursuant to Rule 144A and Regulation S promulgated under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. The Original 2003 Notes were issued at a price of 100% of their face amount (before underwriting discount and other issuance costs). In May 2004 the Company completed an offer to exchange all of the outstanding Original 2003 Notes for an equal amount of 6 ½% Senior Notes due November 2013 (the 6 ½% Senior Notes), which were registered under the Securities Act of 1933. Interest on the 6 1/2% Senior Notes is payable semiannually. Beazer Homes may, at the Companys option, redeem the 6 1/2% Senior Notes in whole or in part at any time after November 2008, initially at 103.250% of the principal amount, declining to 100% of the principal amount after November 2011. Beazer Homes may redeem the 6 1/2% Senior Notes, in whole or in part, at any time before November 2008 at a redemption price equal to the principal amount thereof plus a make-whole premium, plus accrued and unpaid interest. A portion of such notes may also be redeemed prior to November 2006 under certain conditions.
In April 2002, the Company issued $350 million aggregate principal amount of 8 3/8% Senior Notes due April 2012 (the Original Notes) in a private placement pursuant to Rule 144A and Regulation S promulgated under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. In September 2002 the Company completed an offer to exchange all of the outstanding Original Notes for an equal amount of 8 3/8% Senior Notes due 2012 (the 8 3/8% Senior Notes), which were registered under the Securities Act of 1933. The terms of the 8 3/8% Senior Notes were substantially identical to the terms of the Original Notes. The Original Notes were issued at a price of 100% of their face amount (before underwriting discount and other issuance costs). Interest on the 8 3/8% Senior Notes is payable semiannually. Beazer Homes may, at the Companys option, redeem the 8 3/8% Senior Notes in whole or in part
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at any time after April 2007, initially at 104.188% of the principal amount, declining to 100% of the principal amount after April 2010.
In May 2001, Beazer Homes issued $200 million 8 5/8% Senior Notes due May 2011 (the 8 5/8% Senior Notes) at a price of 99.178% of their face amount (before underwriting discount and other issuance costs). Interest on the 8 5/8% Senior Notes is payable semiannually. The Company may, at its option, redeem the 8 5/8% Senior Notes in whole or in part at any time after May 2006, initially at 104.3125% of the principal amount, declining to 100% of the principal amount after May 2009.
The Convertible Senior Notes, the 6 7/8% Senior Notes, the 6 1/2 % Senior Notes, the 8 3/8% Senior Notes and the 8 5/8% Senior Notes (collectively, the Senior Notes) are unsecured obligations ranking pari passu with all other existing and future senior indebtedness. All of the Companys significant subsidiaries are full and unconditional guarantors of the Senior Notes and the obligations under the Credit Facility, and are jointly and severally liable for obligations under the Senior Notes and the Credit Facility. Each guarantor subsidiary is a 100% owned subsidiary of Beazer Homes.
The indentures under which the Senior Notes were issued contain certain restrictive covenants, including limitations on payment of dividends. At June 30, 2005, under the most restrictive covenants of each indenture, approximately $291.0 million of the Companys retained earnings was available for cash dividends and for share repurchases. Each indenture provides that, in the event of defined changes in control or if Beazer Homes consolidated tangible net worth falls below a specified level or in certain circumstances upon a sale of assets, the Company is required to offer to repurchase certain specified amounts of outstanding Senior Notes.
The Company is exposed to fluctuations in interest rates. From time to time, Beazer Homes has entered into derivative agreements to manage interest costs and hedge against risks associated with fluctuating interest rates related to $100 million of floating rate debt. At September 30, 2004, Beazer Homes had swap agreements to effectively fix the interest rate on $100 million in floating rate debt. As of September 30, 2004, the Company had recorded a cumulative after-tax other comprehensive loss of $610,000 as a result of the swap agreements. The estimated fair value of the swap agreements, based on current market rates, approximated $1.0 million at September 30, 2004 and was included in other liabilities. The swap agreements expired on December 20, 2004.
(9) Contingencies
Trinity Claims Beazer Homes and certain of its subsidiaries have been and continue to be named as defendants in various construction defect claims, complaints and other legal actions that include claims related to moisture intrusion and mold. The Company has experienced a significant number of such claims in its Midwest region and particularly with respect to homes built by Trinity Homes LLC, a subsidiary which was acquired in the Crossmann acquisition in 2002.
As of June 30, 2005, there were eleven pending lawsuits related to such complaints received by Trinity. All eleven suits are by individual homeowners, and the cost to resolve these matters is not expected to be material, either individually or in the aggregate. Additionally, a class action suit was filed in the State of Indiana in August 2003 against Trinity Homes LLC. The parties in the class action reached a settlement agreement which was approved by the court on October 20, 2004.
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The settlement class includes, with certain exclusions, the current owners of all Trinity homes that have brick veneer, where the closing of Trinitys initial sale of the home took place between June 1, 1998 and October 31, 2002. The settlement agreement establishes an agreed protocol and process for assessment and remediation of any external water intrusion issues at the homes which includes, among other things, that the homes will be repaired at Trinitys expense. The settlement agreement also provides for payment of plaintiffs attorneys fees and for Trinity to pay an agreed amount for engineering inspection costs for each home for which a claim is filed under the settlement.
Under the settlement, subject to Trinitys timely performance of the specified assessments and remediation activities for homeowners who file claims, each homeowner releases Trinity, Beazer Homes Investment Corp. and other affiliated companies, including Beazer Homes, from the claims asserted in the class action lawsuit, claims arising out of external water intrusion, claims of improper brick installation, including property damage claims, loss or diminution of property value claims, and most personal injury claims, among others. No appeals of the courts order approving the settlement were received by the court within the timeframe established by the court. The Company sent out the claims notices on December 17, 2004, and the class members had until February 15, 2005 to file claims. A total of 1,311 valid claims were filed (of the 2,161 total class members), of which 613 complaints had been received prior to the Companys receipt of the claim notices. Class members who did not file a claim by February 15, 2005 are no longer able to file a class action claim under the settlement or pursue an individual claim against Trinity.
Beazer Homes warranty reserves at June 30, 2005 and September 30, 2004 include accruals for the Companys estimated costs to assess and remediate all homes for which Trinity had received complaints related to moisture intrusion and mold, including a provision for legal fees. Warranty reserves at June 30, 2005 also include accruals for class action claims received, pursuant to the settlement discussed above, from class members who had not previously contacted Trinity with complaints.
The following is a rollforward of total complaints received as of each balance sheet date:
Three Months EndedJune 30,
Nine Months EndedJune 30,
Complaints outstanding at beginning of period
1,584
759
887
415
Complaints received during the period
20
142
774
486
Complaints resolved during the period
(42
(17
(99
Complaints outstanding at end of the period
1,562
884
The cost to assess and remediate a home depends on the extent of moisture damage, if any, that the home has incurred. Homes for which the Company receives complaints are classified into one of three categories: 1) homes with no moisture damage, 2) homes with isolated moisture damage or 3) homes with extensive moisture damage.
As of June 30, 2005 and September 30, 2004, the Company accrued for its estimated cost to remediate homes that it had assessed and assigned to one of the above categories, as well as the Companys estimated cost to remediate those homes for which a complaint had not been received, and for which an assessment had not yet been performed. For purposes of the Companys accrual, the Company has historically assigned homes not yet assessed to categories based on its expectations about the extent of damage and trends observed from the results of assessments performed to date. In addition, beginning in the quarter ended March 31, 2005, the Company
15
refined its cost estimation process to consider the subdivision of the claimant along with the categorization discussed above. Once a home is categorized, detailed budgets are used as the basis to prepare the Companys estimated costs to remediate such home.
During fiscal 2004, the Company initiated a program under which it offered to repurchase a limited number of homes from specific homeowners. The program was concluded during the first quarter of fiscal 2005. The Company has repurchased a total of 54 homes under the program. During the three and nine months ended June 30, 2005, the Company sold one and four of the repurchased homes, respectively. The remaining fifty homes were acquired for an aggregate purchase price of $16.5 million. The accrual at June 30, 2005 includes the estimated costs to sell homes that the Company has repurchased, and the Companys estimated losses on the sale of those homes, if any.
Changes in the accrual for Trinity moisture intrusion and related mold issues during the period were as follows (in thousands):
Balance at beginning of period
86,735
24,095
42,173
9,200
Provisions
10,000
55,000
28,258
Payments
(2,814
(3,342
(13,252
(6,705
Balance at end of period
83,921
30,753
The accruals at June 30, 2005 represent the Companys best estimates of the costs to resolve all asserted complaints. Actual costs to assess and remediate homes in each category and subdivision, the extent of damage to homes not yet assessed, estimates of costs to sell repurchased homes, and losses on such sales could differ from the Companys estimates. As a result, the costs to resolve existing complaints could differ from the Companys recorded accruals and have a material adverse effect on the Companys earnings in the periods in which the matters are resolved. Additionally, it is possible that the Company will incur additional losses related to these matters, including additional losses related to homes for which the Company has not yet received complaints. However, the amount or range of such losses cannot be determined at this time.
Warranty Reserves Beazer Homes provides a limited warranty (ranging from one to two years) of workmanship and materials with each of its homes. Such warranty covers defects in plumbing, electrical, heating, cooling and ventilating systems and construction defects. In addition, the Company provides a warranty (ranging from a minimum of ten years up to the period covered by the applicable statute of repose) with each home, covering construction defects only. Since Beazer Homes subcontracts its homebuilding work to subcontractors who generally provide the Company with an indemnity and a certificate of insurance prior to receiving payments for their work, claims relating to workmanship and materials are generally the primary responsibility of the subcontractors.
As noted above, the Companys warranty reserves at June 30, 2005 and September 30, 2004 include accruals for Trinity moisture intrusion and related mold issues. Warranty reserves are included in accrued expenses in the condensed consolidated financial statements. The Company records reserves covering anticipated warranty expense for each home closed. Management reviews the adequacy of warranty reserves each reporting period based on historical experience and managements estimate of the costs to remediate the claims and adjusts these
16
provisions accordingly. While the Company believes that its warranty reserves are adequate, historical data and trends may not accurately predict actual warranty costs, or future developments could lead to a significant change in the reserve.
Changes in the Companys warranty reserves, which include amounts related to the Trinity moisture intrusion and mold issues discussed above, during the period are as follows (in thousands):
136,715
61,727
86,163
40,473
11,452
19,465
83,748
54,655
(11,130
(10,486
(32,874
(24,422
137,037
70,706
Other Contingencies - The Company and certain of its subsidiaries have been named as defendants in various claims, complaints and other legal actions, including relating to moisture intrusion and related mold claims, construction defects and product liability. Certain of the liabilities resulting from these actions are covered by insurance. With respect to certain general liability exposures, including construction defect, moisture intrusion and related mold claims and product liability, interpretation of underlying current and future trends, assessment of claims and the related liability and reserve estimation process is highly judgmental due to the complex nature of these exposures, with each exposure exhibiting unique circumstances. In particular, for construction defect liability there is a high degree of uncertainty relating to whether insurance coverage exists, when losses occur, the size of each loss, expectations for future interpretive rulings concerning contract provisions and the extent to which the assertion of these claims will expand geographically. In the Companys opinion, based on its current assessment, the ultimate resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on Beazer Homes financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows.
(10) Income Taxes
A provision for income taxes for the nine month period ended June 30, 2005 has been recorded at an estimated effective income tax rate exclusive of the goodwill impairment charge as such charge is not tax deductible. Beazer Homes effective income tax rate was 38.25% for the three month and nine month periods ended June 30, 2005, exclusive of the goodwill impairment charge as discussed in Note 2. The Companys effective tax rate was 39.0% for the three and nine month periods ended June 30, 2004.
(11) Supplemental Guarantor Information
As discussed in Note 8, Beazer Homes obligations to pay principal, premium, if any, and interest under certain debt are guaranteed on a joint and several basis by substantially all of its subsidiaries. The guarantees are full and unconditional and the guarantor subsidiaries are 100% owned by Beazer Homes USA, Inc. The Company has determined that separate, full financial statements of the guarantors would not be material to investors and, accordingly, supplemental financial information for the guarantors is presented.
17
Beazer Homes USA, Inc.
Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet
June 30, 2005
Consolidated
Beazer
Homes
Guarantor
Non-Guarantor
Eliminating
USA, Inc.
Subsidiaries
Entries
21,274
(14,123
947
132,271
1,346
2,753,573
9,389
Investments in subsidiaries
1,465,729
(1,465,729
Intercompany
998,304
(1,020,171
21,867
22,727
33,401
13,922
2,554,732
2,331,192
38,082
(1,456,340
209,889
1,084
12,455
474,821
15,428
(3,591
(2,642
2,642
Senior notes (net of discount of $18,960)
1,220,853
897,371
19,154
Stockholders equity
1,433,821
18,928
(1,452,749
18
September 30, 2004
392,110
(71,569
339
70,237
337
2,079,494
9,836
Investment in and advances to unconsolidated joint ventures
1,468,078
(1,468,078
566,216
(583,038
16,822
19,432
17,881
8,526
2,492,888
2,088,792
26,024
(1,458,242
123,174
113
146,473
276,242
11,057
3,836
(1,043
1,043
Senior notes (net of discount of $14,663)
1,260,767
640,525
12,213
1,448,267
13,811
(1,462,078
19
Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations
Three Months Ended June 30, 2005
1,291,240
1,987
940,901
151,649
472
(1,230
Operating (loss) income
(22,798
198,690
1,515
1,230
(Loss) Income before income taxes
202,628
(8,720
77,505
580
470
Equity in income of subsidiaries
126,818
(126,818
Net income (loss)
125,123
935
(126,058
Three Months Ended June 30, 2004
1,008,359
920
784,556
(2,160
110,926
250
(19,469
112,877
670
2,160
114,476
(7,593
44,646
262
842
71,556
(71,556
69,830
408
(70,238
Nine Months Ended June 30, 2005
3,176,381
4,921
2,391,842
371,630
1,314
(9,389
(64,269
282,674
3,607
(Loss) income before income taxes
290,811
(24,583
161,050
1,380
3,591
137,786
(137,786
129,761
2,227
(131,988
Nine Months Ended June 30, 2004
2,691,461
4,507
2,099,651
(8,689
298,671
1,729
(54,872
293,139
2,778
8,689
3,858
(55
298,745
2,723
(21,400
116,510
3,389
189,196
(189,196
182,235
1,660
(183,896
21
Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows
(387,292
(32,863
(1,249
Net cash used by investing activities
Advances to/from subsidiaries
(130,563
128,706
1,857
16,456
(370,836
57,446
608
22
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities
(72,166
(145,698
2,025
Proceeds of Term Loan
(114,453
118,390
(3,937
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
237,386
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
165,220
(37,053
(1,912
110,754
(40,079
2,697
275,974
(77,132
785
23
Item 2. Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
OVERVIEW:
Homebuilding: Beazer Homes designs, sells and builds single-family homes in the following regions and states:
Mississippi
Colorado
Pennsylvania
Ohio
North Carolina
Nevada
Virginia / West Virginia
South Carolina
Tennessee
Beazer Homes intends, subject to market conditions, to expand in its current markets and to consider entering new markets either through expansion from existing markets or through acquisitions of established regional homebuilders. Beazer Homes seeks to be one of the five largest builders in each of the markets that Beazer Homes serves.
The Company designs its homes at various price points to appeal to homebuyers across various demographic segments. Beazer Homes objective is to provide its customers at each price-point with homes that incorporate exceptional value and quality while seeking to maximize return on invested capital. To achieve this objective, Beazer Homes has developed a business strategy which focuses on the following elements:
Geographic Diversity and Growth Markets. Beazer Homes competes in a large number of geographically diverse markets in an attempt to reduce its exposure to any particular regional economy. Most of the markets in which the Company operates have experienced significant population growth in recent years. Within these markets, Beazer Homes builds homes in a variety of projects. The Companys business strategy entails further increasing its market penetration across the geographically diverse markets in which it competes.
Leverage of National Brand. In October 2003, Beazer Homes launched a branding strategy that is designed to build a unified consumer brand across all markets in which it operates. The Companys new national branding strategy presents it as one company with one name, one logo, one message and one purpose. Beazer Homes believes that a national branding strategy will differentiate it from its competitors by promoting qualities that lead to good recommendations, referrals to family and friends, and repeat purchases by loyal customers. Beazer Homes feels that a strengthened, national brand identity will better position it to consistently address the needs of its customers across all of the Companys markets.
Leverage Size, Scale and Capabilities to Achieve Optimal Efficiencies. The Company has implemented specific profitability initiatives which focus on leveraging Beazer Homes size, scale and capabilities in order to achieve enhanced gross profit and operating profit margins. These initiatives include:
leveraging the Companys size to create economies of scale in purchasing and construction;
24
standardizing best practices and product designs;
using branding and increased market penetration to maximize efficiency of land use; and
leveraging its fixed cost infrastructure by increasing depth and breadth in markets where the Company has an established presence.
Quality Homes at Various Price-Points to Meet the Needs of Increasingly Diverse Homebuyers. Beazer Homes seeks to maximize customer satisfaction by offering homes which incorporate quality materials, distinctive design features, convenient locations and competitive prices. During the three and nine months ended June 30, 2005, the average sales price of the Companys homes closed was approximately $272,700 and $264,800, respectively. The Companys product strategy entails addressing the needs of an increasingly diverse profile of buyers as evidenced by demographic trends including, among others, increased immigration, changing profiles of households, the aging of the baby-boomers, and the rise of the echo-boomers (children of the baby-boomers) into the ranks of homeownership. Beazer Homes product offering is broken down into the following product categories:
Economy. These homes are targeted primarily at entry-level buyers, are generally 1,500 square feet or less in size, and are intended to meet the needs of those buyers for whom price is the most important factor in the buying decision.
Value. These homes are targeted at entry-level and move-up buyers, generally range from 1,500 to 2,500 square feet in size, and are intended to appeal to buyers who are more interested in style and features, but are still somewhat price-focused.
Style. These homes are targeted at more affluent move-up buyers, are generally greater than 2,500 square feet in size, and are intended to appeal to buyers in the more luxurious segment of the market, who place greater emphasis on style and features.
In addition, Beazer Homes also offers homes to the active-adult segment which are targeted to buyers over 55 years of age, in communities with special amenities. The Company offers these homes within the Economy, Value and Style categories described above. Within each product category, Beazer Homes seeks to provide exceptional value and to ensure an enjoyable customer experience.
Seasonality and Quarterly VariabilityThe Companys homebuilding operating cycle generally reflects escalating new order activity in the second and third fiscal quarters and increased closings in the third and fourth fiscal quarters.
Additional Products and Services for Homebuyers: In order to maximize Beazer Homes profitability and provide its customers with the additional products and services that they desire, the Company has incorporated design centers and mortgage origination operations into its business. Recognizing that its customers want to choose certain components of their new home, the Company offers limited customization through the use of design studios in most of its markets. These design studios allow the customer to select certain non-structural customizations for their homes such as cabinetry, flooring, fixtures, appliances and wall coverings. Additionally, recognizing the homebuyers desire to simplify the financing process, the Company originates mortgages on behalf of customers through Beazer Homes subsidiary Beazer Mortgage Corporation, or Beazer Mortgage. Beazer Mortgage originates, processes and brokers mortgages to third party investors.
25
Beazer Mortgage generally does not retain or service the mortgages that it brokers. Beazer Homes also provides title services to customers in many of the Companys markets.
Critical Accounting Policies: Some of the Companys critical accounting policies require the use of judgment in their application or require estimates of inherently uncertain matters. Although Beazer Homes accounting policies are in compliance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, a change in the facts and circumstances of the underlying transactions could significantly change the application of the accounting policies and the resulting financial statement impact. Listed below are those policies that the Company believes are critical and require the use of complex judgment in their application.
Inventory Valuation
Housing projects and land held for development and sale are stated at cost (including direct construction costs, capitalized indirect costs, capitalized interest and real estate taxes) unless facts and circumstances indicate that the carrying value of the assets may be impaired. The Company assesses these assets for recoverability in accordance with the provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 144, Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets. SFAS No. 144 requires that long-lived assets be reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Recoverability of assets is measured by comparing the carrying amount of an asset to future undiscounted net cash flows expected to be generated by the asset. If these assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets exceeds the fair value of the assets.
These evaluations for impairment are significantly impacted by estimates of revenues, costs and expenses and other factors. Due to uncertainties in the estimation process, it is reasonably possible that actual results could differ from those estimates. The Companys assumptions about future home sales prices and volumes require significant judgment because the residential homebuilding industry is cyclical and is highly sensitive to changes in economic conditions. The Company continues to evaluate the carrying value of inventory and, based on historical results, believes that the existing estimation process is accurate and does not anticipate the process to materially change in the future.
Beazer Homes tests goodwill for impairment annually or more frequently if an event occurs or circumstances change that more likely than not reduce the value of a reporting unit below its carrying value. For purposes of goodwill impairment testing, the Company compares the fair value of each reporting unit with its carrying amount, including goodwill. Each of the Companys operating divisions is considered a reporting unit. The fair value of each reporting unit is determined based on expected discounted future cash flows. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, goodwill is considered impaired. If goodwill is considered impaired, the impairment loss to be recognized is measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the goodwill exceeds implied fair value of that goodwill.
26
Inherent in Beazer Homes fair value determinations are certain judgments and estimates, including projections of future cash flows, the discount rate reflecting the risk inherent in future cash flows, the interpretation of current economic indicators and market valuations and the Companys strategic plans with regard to its operations. A change in these underlying assumptions would cause a change in the results of the tests, which could cause the fair value of one or more reporting units to be less than their respective carrying amounts. In addition, to the extent that there are significant changes in market conditions or overall economic conditions or the Companys strategic plans change, it is possible that a future goodwill impairment charge could result, which could have a material effect on the Companys financial position and results of operations.
Beazer Homes goodwill has been assigned to reporting units in different geographic locations. Therefore, potential goodwill impairment charges resulting from changes in local market and/or local economic conditions or changes in the Companys strategic plans may be isolated to one or a few of its reporting units. However, the Companys business is concentrated in the homebuilding industry and, as such, a widespread decline in the homebuilding industry or a significant deterioration of economic conditions could have a negative impact on the estimated fair value of a larger number of its reporting units.
During the quarter ended March 31, 2005 Beazer Homes obtained an independant valuation of its reporting units and recorded a $130.2 million non-cash non tax-deductible impairment charge to write off substantially all of the goodwill allocated to certain underperforming markets in Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky and Charlotte, North Carolina. The goodwill had been recorded as a result of the April 2002 acquisition of Crossmann Communities. The forecasts and valuations of the respective divisions, along with weaker than anticipated local economies, particularly in the Midwest markets, and severe price competition, particularly at entry level price points, led the Company to conclude the goodwill was impaired in accordance with the provisions of SFAS 142.
Homebuilding Revenues and Costs
Revenue from the sale of a home is recognized when the closing has occurred and the risk of ownership is transferred to the buyer. All associated homebuilding costs are charged to cost of sales in the period when the revenues from home closings are recognized. Homebuilding costs include land and land development costs (based upon an allocation of such costs, including costs to complete the development, or specific lot costs), home construction costs (including an estimate of costs, if any, to complete home construction), previously capitalized indirect costs (principally for construction supervision), capitalized interest and estimated warranty costs. Sales commissions are included in selling, general and administrative expense when the closing has occurred. All other costs are expensed as incurred.
Warranty Reserves
Beazer Homes provides a limited warranty (ranging from one to two years) of workmanship and materials with each of its homes. Such warranty covers defects in plumbing, electrical, heating, cooling and ventilating systems and construction defects. In addition, the Company provides a warranty (ranging from a minimum of ten years up to the period covered by the applicable statute of repose) with each home, covering construction defects only. Since Beazer Homes subcontracts its homebuilding work to subcontractors who generally provide the Company with an indemnity and a certificate of insurance prior to receiving payments for their work, claims relating to workmanship and materials are generally the primary responsibility of the subcontractors.
27
Warranty reserves are included in accrued expenses in the consolidated financial statements. The Company records reserves covering anticipated warranty expense for each home closed. Management reviews the adequacy of warranty reserves each reporting period based on historical experience and managements estimate of the costs to remediate the claims and adjusts these provisions accordingly. Factors that affect the Companys warranty liability include the number of homes sold, historical and anticipated rates of warranty claims, and cost per claim. Based on our historical results, Beazer Homes believes that the existing estimation process is accurate and does not anticipate the process to materially change in the future. The Companys warranty reserves at June 30, 2005 and September 30, 2004 include accruals for Trinity moisture intrusion and related mold issues. Our estimation process for such accruals is discussed in Note 9 to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. While the Company believes that its warranty reserves are adequate, historical data and trends may not accurately predict actual warranty costs, or future developments could lead to a significant change in the reserve.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS:
The following presents certain operating and financial data for Beazer Homes (dollars in thousands):
%
Amount
Change
Number of new orders, net of cancellations:
Southeast region
1,875
13.2
1,657
4,767
9.9
4,336
West region
1,607
(11.8
1,823
4,863
(5.8
5,162
Central region
416
40.1
297
1,059
27.1
833
Mid-Atlantic region
514
20.4
427
1,582
38.0
1,146
Midwest region
790
18.8
665
1,715
(0.8
1,728
Total
5,202
6.8
4,869
13,986
5.9
13,205
Number of closings:
1,491
11.3
1,340
3,926
3.5
3,794
1,774
13.6
4,324
3.4
4,180
409
89.4
216
866
30.4
664
439
7.3
1,175
7.4
1,094
518
(3.0
534
1,516
(6.5
1,621
4,631
14.0
4,061
11,807
4.0
11,353
Total homebuilding revenue:
330,307
25.6
263,076
807,458
13.5
711,224
579,962
461,671
1,450,339
21.1
1,197,948
64,858
82.2
35,603
139,777
31.6
106,190
207,330
36.6
151,775
493,515
30.6
377,949
80,433
1.1
79,552
235,213
(2.5
241,316
1,262,890
27.3
991,677
3,126,302
18.7
2,634,627
Average sales price per home closed:
221.5
12.8
196.3
205.7
9.7
187.5
326.9
10.6
295.6
335.4
17.0
286.6
158.6
(3.8
164.8
161.4
0.9
159.9
472.3
371.1
420.0
21.6
345.5
155.3
4.2
149.0
155.2
148.9
Company average
272.7
11.7
244.2
264.8
14.1
232.1
28
Backlog units at end of period:
3,470
21.2
2,863
3,679
12.5
3,269
622
10.1
565
1,454
24.4
1,169
1,410
(0.1
1,412
10,635
14.6
9,278
Aggregate sales value of homes in backlog at end of period:
3,121,702
35.4
2,304,705
Number of active subdivisions at end of period:
170
(10.1
)%
189
107
15.1
93
49
11.4
44
62
12.7
55
133
5.6
126
521
2.8
507
New Orders and Backlog: New orders increased by 6.8% during the three month period ended June 30, 2005, compared to the same period in the prior year. The growth in new home orders for the quarter resulted from increases in the Companys Southeast, Central, Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions, primarily in South Carolina, Texas, Ohio and Maryland. This growth was partially offset by decreased orders in the West region, where strong order growth in Arizona, Colorado and Southern California was offset by declines in Nevada and Northern California. The declines in these markets resulted primarily from certain entitlement issues which resulted in delayed community openings in addition to the Companys overall focus on converting its backlog during the quarter.
New orders increased by 5.9% during the nine month period ended June 30, 2005, compared to the same period in the prior year driven primarily by increased orders in the Companys Mid-Atlantic region (38.0%) and its Central region (27.1%) compared to the same nine-month period a year ago. Orders declined by 5.8% in the Companys West region, primarily attributable to declines in Northern California and Nevada.
The aggregate dollar value of homes in backlog at June 30, 2005 increased 35.4% from June 30, 2004, reflecting a 14.6% increase in the number of homes in backlog and an 18.2% increase in the average price of homes in backlog, from $248,400 at June 30, 2004 to $293,500 at June 30, 2005. The increase in the number of homes in backlog is driven primarily by continued strong order trends in the Mid-Atlantic region, most of the Southeast region and Arizona and Southern California in the West region. The increase in average price of homes in backlog is due to the Companys ability to raise prices in most markets, particularly in the West, Mid-Atlantic and Southeast regions, as well as a greater proportion of backlog in the Mid-Atlantic region, where
29
prices are generally higher compared to other regions, and a lower proportion of backlog in the Central and Midwest regions, where prices are generally lower.
Year-to-date performance in the Companys Midwest and Charlotte markets continues to be disappointing despite moderate improvement in new orders for the current quarter, as soft economic conditions in these markets and a high degree of competition, particularly at entry level price points, continue to adversely impact results.
The following table provides additional details of revenues and certain expenses and shows certain items expressed as a percentage of certain components of revenues (in thousands):
Details of revenues and certain expenses:
Revenues:
Home sales (1)
989,961
2,636,896
Land and lot sales
20,789
10,570
29,767
32,136
Mortgage origination revenue
13,708
11,531
35,872
35,971
Intercompany elimination - mortgage
(4,160
(2,783
(10,639
(9,035
Cost of home construction and land sales:
Home sales (1), (2)
950,013
794,875
2,442,767
2,125,202
17,846
9,773
23,983
29,667
Total cost of home construction and land sales
Selling, general and administrative:
Homebuilding operations
141,315
103,403
337,564
277,510
Mortgage origination operations
9,576
7,773
25,991
22,890
Total selling, general and administrative
Certain items as a percentage of revenues:
As a percentage of total revenue:
Costs of home construction and land sales (2)
74.5
79.4
77.2
79.6
10.9
10.2
10.3
Mortgage operations
0.7
0.8
As a percentage of home sales revenue:
Costs of home construction (2)
75.2
80.3
78.1
80.6
(1) Homebuilding revenues for the nine months ended June 30, 2004 reflect the recognition on a consolidated basis of $4.1 million of revenues related to closings that occurred in fiscal 2003, but for which funding was not received until fiscal 2004. During fiscal 2003, revenues and related cost of sales were not recognized on those closings where the buyers' initial investments were not sufficient to recognize profit at the time of closing. We received funding on such closings pursuant to commitments from bond authority programs in fiscal 2004, at which time we recognized the revenues and related cost of sales. Homebuilding revenues for the three and nine months ended June 30, 2004 also reflect the deferral on a consolidated basis of $1.8 million of revenues related to similar closings.
(2) The costs of home contruction for the nine months ended June 30, 2005, include charges of $55.0 million relating to construction defect claims from water intrusion at Trinity Homes LLC. Similar charges were $10.0 million and $28.3 million for the three and nine months ended June 30, 2004, respectively.
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Revenues: Revenues increased by 28.1% for the three months ended June 30, 2005 compared to the same period in the prior year. Homes closed increased by 14.0% while the average sales price of homes closed increased by 11.7%. Home closings increased in the Companys Central region and in parts of the Mid-Atlantic, Southeast and West regions, notably Texas, Maryland, Arizona, Nevada and parts of South Carolina and Florida. These increases were offset by soft economic conditions in parts of the Midwest region. Average sales price increased in the Southeast, West, and Mid-Atlantic regions due primarily to strong demand and constraints on the supply of available housing in many of the Companys markets. Prices increased most significantly in the West and Mid-Atlantic regions, and particularly in Nevada and Virginia.
Revenues increased by 18.0% for the nine months ended June 30, 2005 compared to the same period in the prior year. Homes closed increased by 4.0% while the average sales price of homes closed increased by 14.1%. Home closings increased in the Companys Mid-Atlantic and Central regions and in parts of the Southeast and West regions, notably parts of Florida, Tennessee, South Carolina, Arizona, Colorado and Southern California. These increases were partially offset by declines in the Midwest and in Nevada and Northern California in the West region, Virginia in the Mid-Atlantic region, and parts of Florida and the Carolinas that were impacted by production delays associated with hurricane activity during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2004. Average sales price increased in all regions due primarily to strong demand and constraints on the supply of available housing in many of the Companys markets. Year to date, prices increased most significantly in the West and Mid-Atlantic regions, and particularly in California, Nevada and Virginia.
Cost of Home Construction: The cost of home construction as a percentage of home sales revenue decreased by 510 basis points for the three month period ended June 30, 2005, compared to the same period of the prior year. The decrease was primarily driven by a strong pricing environment in several markets and the execution of profit improvement and price point diversification initiatives in 2005. In addition, costs for the three month period ended June 30, 2004 included warranty costs of $10.0 million associated with construction defect claims from water intrusion at Trinity Homes LLC. For further discussion of these additional warranty expenses, please refer to Note 9 of the condensed consolidated financial statements.
The cost of home construction as a percentage of home sales revenue decreased by 250 basis points for the nine month period ended June 30, 2005, compared to the same period of the prior year. The decrease was driven by a strong pricing environment in several markets and the execution of profit improvement and price point diversification initiatives. The resulting decrease was partially offset by the inclusion of warranty costs associated with construction defect claims from water intrusion at Trinity Homes LLC of $55.0 million, compared to $28.3 million in the same period a year ago.
Selling, General and Administrative Expense:The Companys selling, general and administrative (SG&A) expense as a percentage of total revenues for the three months ended June 30, 2005 increased by 65 basis points compared to the same period of the prior year due primarily to increased headcount and incentive accruals to support the aforementioned revenue growth.
The Companys selling, general and administrative (SG&A) expense as a percentage of total revenues for the nine months ended June 30, 2005 increased by 29 basis points compared to the same period of the prior year.
Goodwill Impairment Charge: During the second quarter of fiscal 2005, Beazer Homes recorded a $130.2 million non-cash, non tax-deductible impairment charge to write off substantially all of the goodwill
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allocated to certain underperforming markets in Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky and Charlotte, North Carolina. The goodwill had been recorded as a result of the April 2002 acquisition of Crossmann Communities. The fair value of each reporting unit is determined based on expected discounted future cash flows. The forecasts and valuations of the respective divisions, along with weaker than anticipated local economies, particularly in the Midwest markets, and severe price competition, particularly at entry level price points, led the Company to conclude the goodwill was impaired in accordance with the provisions of SFAS 142.
Income Taxes: A provision for income taxes for the nine month period ended June 30, 2005 has been recorded at an estimated effective income tax rate exclusive of the goodwill impairment charge as such charge is not tax deductible. Beazer Homes effective income tax rate was 38.25% for the three month and nine periods ended June 30, 2005. The Companys effective tax rate was 39.0% for the three and nine month periods ended June 30, 2004.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements:
In September 2004 the Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF) of the FASB reached a consensus on EITF Issue No. 04-8: The Effect of Contingently Convertible Debt on Diluted Earnings Per Share (EITF 04-8). The consensus was ratified by the FASB in October 2004. EITF 04-8 requires that shares issuable upon conversion of contingently convertible debt instruments (Co-Cos) be included in diluted earnings per share computations using the if-converted method regardless of whether the issuers stock price exceeds the contingent conversion price. Prior to EITF 04-8, shares issuable upon conversion of Co-Cos were generally excluded from diluted earnings per share computations until the issuers stock price exceeded the contingent conversion price. EITF 04-8, which applies to the Companys 4 5/8% Convertible Senior Notes issued in June 2004, was effective beginning with the first quarter of Beazer Homes 2005 fiscal year. Restatement of prior period earnings per share amounts presented for comparative purposes is required. The 4 5/8% Convertible Senior Notes were outstanding for a portion of the quarter ended June 30, 2004. Diluted earnings per share have been retroactively restated to reflect the effect of the adoption of EITF 04-8 for the three and nine months ended June 30, 2004. Please refer to Note 7 of the condensed consolidated financial statements.
In December 2004, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued SFAS 123(R) Share-Based Payment. SFAS 123(R) requires the fair value of all share based payment transactions to be recognized in the financial statements. As a result, upon adoption of SFAS 123(R), the Company will be required to recognize compensation expense for the fair value of employee stock options over the applicable vesting period. The Company is currently assessing the impact of SFAS 123(R) on its condensed consolidated financial statements. The Company does not expect SFAS 123(R) to significantly change the Companys accounting for restricted stock awards or non-employee stock awards.
SFAS 123(R) is effective as of the beginning of the fiscal year reporting period that begins after June 15, 2005, the first quarter of the Companys 2006 fiscal year. SFAS 123(R) applies to new awards and to awards modified, repurchased, or cancelled after the required effective date, as well as to the unvested portion of awards outstanding as of the required effective date (modified prospective application). Upon adoption, prior periods may be, but are not required to be, restated.
In March 2005, the Securities and Exchange Commission released SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin (SAB) No. 107, Share-Based Payment. SAB No. 107 provides the SEC staffs position regarding the implementation of SFAS No. 123(R). SAB No. 107 contains interpretive guidance related to the interaction between
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SFAS No. 123(R) and certain SEC rules and regulations, as well as provides the staffs views regarding the valuation of share-based payment transactions. The Company is currently evaluating SAB No. 107 and will be incorporating it as part of the Companys adoption of SFAS No. 123(R).
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND LIQUIDITY:
Available borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility are limited to certain percentages of homes under contract, unsold homes, substantially improved lots, lots under development, entitled raw land and accounts receivable. At June 30, 2005, the Company had no borrowings outstanding under the Revolving Credit Facility, and had available borrowings of $453.0 million under the Revolving Credit Facility.
In June 2005, the Company issued $300 million aggregate principal amount of 6 7/8% Senior Notes due July 2015 (the 6 7/8% Senior Notes) in a private placement pursuant to Rule 144A and Regulation S, promulgated under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. The 6 7/8% Senior Notes were issued at a price of 99.096% of their face amount (before underwriting discount and other issuance costs). In July 2005, the Company issued an additional $50 million aggregate principal amount of the 6 7/8% Senior Notes in a private placement pursuant to Rule 144A, promulgated under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. The additional $50 million of 6 7/8% Senior Notes was issued at a price of 99.976% of their face amount (before underwriting discount and other issuance costs) and accrue interest from June 8, 2005 (the date of the original issuance of the 6 7/8% Senior Notes). Interest on the 6 7/8% Senior Notes is payable semi-annually. Beazer Homes may, at the Companys option, redeem the 6 7/8% Senior Notes in whole or in part at any time after July 2010, initially at 103.438% of the principal amount, declining to 100% of the principal amount after July 2013. The Company may redeem the 6 7/8% Senior Notes, in whole or in part, at any time before July 2010 at a redemption price equal to the principal amount thereof plus a make-whole premium, plus accrued and unpaid interest. A portion of such notes may be redeemed prior to July 2008 under certain conditions.
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In November 2003, the Company issued $200 million aggregate principal amount of 6 ½% Senior Notes due November 2013 (the Original 2003 Notes) in a private placement pursuant to Rule 144A and Regulation S promulgated under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. The Original 2003 Notes were issued at a price of 100% of their face amount (before underwriting discount and other issuance costs). In May 2004 the Company completed an offer to exchange all of the outstanding Original 2003 Notes for an equal amount of 6 ½% Senior Notes due November 2013 (the 6 ½% Senior Notes), which were registered under the Securities Act of 1933. Interest on the 6 ½% Senior Notes is payable semiannually. Beazer Homes may, at the Companys option, redeem the 6 ½% Senior Notes in whole or in part at any time after November 2008, initially at 103.250% of the principal amount, declining to 100% of the principal amount after November 2011. Beazer Homes may redeem the 6 ½% Senior Notes, in whole or in part, at any time before November 2008 at a redemption price equal to the principal amount thereof plus a make-whole premium, plus accrued and unpaid interest. A portion of such notes may also be redeemed prior to November 2006 under certain conditions.
In April 2002, the Company issued $350 million aggregate principal amount of 8 3/8% Senior Notes due April 2012 (the Original Notes) in a private placement pursuant to Rule 144A and Regulation S promulgated under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. In September 2002 the Company completed an offer to exchange all of the outstanding Original Notes for an equal amount of 8 3/8% Senior Notes due 2012 (the 8 3/8% Senior Notes), which were registered under the Securities Act of 1933. The terms of the 8 3/8% Senior Notes were substantially identical to the terms of the Original Notes. The Original Notes were issued at a price of 100% of their face amount (before underwriting discount and other issuance costs). Interest on the 8 3/8% Senior Notes is payable semiannually. Beazer Homes may, at the Companys option, redeem the 8 3/8% Senior Notes in whole or in part at any time after April 2007, initially at 104.188% of the principal amount, declining to 100% of the principal amount after April 2010.
The Convertible Senior Notes, the 6 7/8% Senior Notes, the 6 ½ % Senior Notes, the 8 3/8% Senior Notes and the 8 5/8% Senior Notes (collectively, the Senior Notes) are unsecured obligations ranking pari passu with all other existing and future senior indebtedness. All of the Companys significant subsidiaries are full and unconditional guarantors of the Senior Notes and the obligations under the Credit Facility, and are jointly and severally liable
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for obligations under the Senior Notes and the Credit Facility. Each guarantor subsidiary is a 100% owned subsidiary of Beazer Homes.
During the third quarter, the Companys obligations relating to senior notes and other notes payable changed due to the repayment of its Term Loan and issuance of $300 million of 6 7/8% Senior Notes, as discussed in Note 8 to the condensed consolidated financial statements. The following summarizes our contractual debt obligations at June 30, 2005:
Payments Due by Period (in Thousands)
Less than 1year
1-3 years
3-5 years
More than 5years
Senior notes and other notes payable
1,269,459
14,433
20,526
4,500
1,230,000
Interest commitments under interest bearing notes
773,322
89,486
178,584
177,025
328,227
Total contractual cash obligations relating to debt
2,042,781
103,919
199,110
181,525
1,558,227
The Companys long term debt and other contractual obligations (principally operating leases) are further described in Notes 7, 8 and 10 to the consolidated financial statements which appear in the Beazer Homes Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 2004.
In January 2000, the Company filed a $300 million universal shelf registration statement on Form S-3 with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Pursuant to the filing, the Company may, from time to time over an extended period, offer new debt and/or equity securities. The Companys $200 million 8 5/8% Senior Notes were sold pursuant to this registration statement. The timing and amount of future offerings, if any, will depend on market and general business conditions.
The Company believes that its cash and cash equivalents on hand and current borrowing capacity, together with anticipated cash flows from operations, is sufficient to meet liquidity needs for the foreseeable future. There can be no assurance, however, that amounts available in the future from the Companys sources of liquidity will be sufficient to meet future capital needs. The amount and types of indebtedness that the Company may incur may be limited by the terms of the indentures governing its Senior Notes and its Term Loan and Revolving Credit Facility. Beazer Homes continually evaluates expansion opportunities through acquisition of established regional homebuilders and such opportunities may require the Company to seek additional capital in the form of equity or debt financing from a variety of potential sources, including additional bank financing and/or securities offerings.
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OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS:
Beazer Homes acquires certain lots by means of option contracts. Option contracts generally require the payment of cash for the right to acquire lots during a specified period of time at a certain price. Under option contracts, both with and without specific performance provisions, purchase of the properties is contingent upon satisfaction of certain requirements by the Company and the sellers. Beazer Homes obligation with respect to options with specific performance provisions is included on the Companys consolidated balance sheets in other payables and accrued liabilities. Under option contracts without specific performance obligations, the Companys liability is generally limited to forfeiture of the non-refundable deposits, letters of credit and other non-refundable amounts incurred, which aggregated approximately $276.1 million at June 30, 2005. This amount includes letters of credit of approximately $39.1 million.
Beazer Homes participates in a number of land development joint ventures in which the Company has less than a controlling interest. The Companys joint ventures are typically entered into with developers and other homebuilders to develop finished lots for sale to the joint ventures members and other third parties. The
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Companys interest in these joint ventures is accounted for under the equity method. The Company recognizes its share of profits from the sale of lots to other buyers. The Companys share of profits from lots purchased from the joint ventures is deferred and treated as a reduction of the cost of the land purchased from the joint venture. Such profits are subsequently recognized at the time the home closes and title passes to the homebuyer.
Beazer Homes joint ventures generally obtain secured acquisition and development financing. In some instances, Beazer Homes and the joint venture partners have provided varying levels of guarantees of debt of the unconsolidated joint ventures. At June 30, 2005 the Company had repayment guarantees of $10.4 million and loan-to-value maintenance guarantees of $66.7 million related to debt of unconsolidated joint ventures. Repayment guarantees require the Company to repay its share of debt of unconsolidated joint ventures in the event the joint venture defaults on its obligations under the loans. Loan-to-value maintenance guarantees may require the Company to repay its share of the ventures borrowings to the extent such borrowings exceed a specified percentage of the value of the property securing the loan. At June 30, 2005, there were no funding obligations related to any loan-to-value maintenance guarantees.
OUTLOOK:
Record backlog coupled with expectations of continued strength in the housing market and continued execution of the strategic initiatives that utilize size, scale and capabilities to achieve greater profitability and increased market penetration gives us confidence in the Companys future growth opportunities. As such, Beazer Homes is raising its outlook for earnings per share from a range of $7.00 - $7.25 to a range of $8.00 - $8.25 in fiscal 2005 excluding the goodwill impairment charge recorded in the second quarter but taking into account the charges associated with the class action settlement for Trinity Homes in the first half of the year.
Cautionary Statement Pursuant to Safe Harbor Provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995:
This quarterly report on Form 10-Q contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements represent the Companys expectations or beliefs concerning future events, and it is possible that the results described in this quarterly report will not be achieved. These forward-looking statements can generally be identified by the use of statements that include words such as estimate, project, believe, expect, anticipate, intend, plan, foresee, likely, will, goal, target or other similar words or phrases. All forward-looking statements are based upon information available to us on the date of this quarterly report. Except as may be required under applicable law, the Company does not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.
These forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are outside of the Companys control, that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements, including, among other things, the matters discussed in this annual report in the sections captioned Outlook and Financial Condition and Liquidity. Additional information about factors that could lead to material changes in performance is contained in the Companys filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Such factors may include:
economic changes nationally or in local markets;
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volatility of mortgage interest rates and inflation;
increased competition;
shortages of skilled labor or raw materials used in the production of houses;
increased prices for labor, land and raw materials used in the production of houses;
increased land development costs on projects under development;
the cost and availability of insurance, including the availability of insurance for the presence of mold;
the impact of construction defect and home warranty claims;
a material failure on the part of Trinity Homes LLC to satisfy the conditions of the class action settlement agreement;
any delays in reacting to changing consumer preference in home design;
terrorist acts and other acts of war;
changes in consumer confidence;
delays or difficulties in implementing initiatives to reduce production and overhead cost structure;
delays in land development or home construction resulting from adverse weather conditions;
potential delays or increased costs in obtaining necessary permits as a result of changes to, or complying with, laws, regulations, or governmental policies and possible penalties for failure to comply with such laws, regulations and governmental policies;
changes in accounting policies, standards, guidelines or principles, as may be adopted by regulatory agencies as well as the Financial Accounting Standards Board;
the failure of the Companys improvement plan for the Midwest and strategies to broaden target price points and lessen dependence on the entry-level segment in certain markets to achieve desired results; or
other factors over which the Company has little or no control.
Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which such statement is made, and, except as required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which such statement is made or to reflect the occurrence if unanticipated events. New factors emerge from time to time and it is not possible for management to predict all such factors.
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Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
Beazer Homes is exposed to a number of market risks in the ordinary course of business. The Companys primary market risk exposure for financial instruments relates to fluctuations in interest rates. The Company does not believe its exposure in this area is material to cash flows or earnings. From time to time, the Company has entered into interest rate swap agreements to manage interest costs and hedge against risks associated with fluctuating interest rates with respect to floating rate debt. The Company does not enter into or hold derivatives for trading or speculative purposes. As of June 30, 2005, the Company has no floating rate debt outstanding, and the Company is not a party to any interest rate swap agreements.
Item 4. Controls and Procedures
As of June 30, 2005, the end of the period covered by this report on Form 10-Q, an evaluation was performed under the supervision and with the participation of Beazer Homes management, including the CEO and CFO, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Companys disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange Act)). Based on that evaluation, Beazer Homes management, including the CEO and CFO, concluded that, as of the end of the period covered by this report, the Companys disclosure controls and procedures were effective to ensure that required information will be disclosed on a timely basis in its reports filed under the Exchange Act. Further, the Companys CEO and CFO concluded that the Companys disclosure controls and procedures have been designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in reports filed by the Company under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to the Companys management, including the CEO and CFO, in a manner to allow timely decisions regarding the required disclosure. No changes in Beazer Homes internal control over financial reporting were identified during the evaluation described above that occurred during the Companys third fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Companys internal control over financial reporting.
Item 1. Legal Proceedings
As of June 30, 2005, the Companys subsidiary, Trinity Homes LLC, had received 1,753 construction defect and warranty complaints related to moisture intrusion and mold. As of June 30, 2005, there were eleven pending lawsuits with individuals related to these complaints. One additional class action suit, Christopher J. Colon and Mary A. Colon v. Trinity Homes LLC and Beazer Homes Investment Corp. (formerly filed as Gary Harmon and Sheri Harmon v. Trinity Homes LLC and Beazer Homes Investment Corp.) was filed in Hamilton County Superior Court in the State of Indiana on August 19, 2003 against Trinity and Beazer Homes Investment Corp., another one of the Companys subsidiaries and Trinitys parent. As part of that case, the plaintiffs asserted that Trinity and Beazer Homes Investment Corp. violated applicable building codes. The parties in the class action engaged in a series of mediation conferences which resulted in a settlement among the parties. The Court approved the settlement agreement on October 20, 2004.
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The settlement class is defined as the current owners of all Trinity homes that have brick veneer, where the closing of Trinitys initial sale of the home took place between June 1, 1998 and October 31, 2002. However, the class definition specifically excludes (a) any houses built by Homes by John McKenzie; (b) any houses owned by Trinity as of August 6, 2004, or which as of August 6, 2004 were the subject of an executed agreement for Trinity to purchase the homes; and (c) any houses for which a homeowner has executed or agreed to a release in favor of Trinity as part of a separate agreement.
The settlement agreement establishes an agreed protocol and process for assessment and remediation of any external water intrusion issues at the homes which includes, among other things, that the homes will be repaired at Trinitys expense. A licensed engineering firm working on behalf of the homeowners will be allowed to review the plan for the remediation of each home as well as the performance of the repair work. The settlement establishes a time frame within which the work must be completed and provides a Dispute Resolution Panel to resolve disputes between any homeowner and Trinity concerning both the plan to remediate the home and the performance of the work.
Under the settlement, each homeowner releases Trinity, Beazer Homes Investment Corp. and other affiliated companies, including Beazer Homes, from the claims asserted in the class action lawsuit, claims arising out of external water intrusion, and claims of improper brick installation, including property damage claims, loss or diminution of property value claims, and most personal injury claims, among others.
There was a 30 day timeframe, which ended on November 19, 2004, to appeal the Courts order approving the settlement. No appeals were received by the Court within the timeframe established. The Company sent out claims notices on December 17, 2004, and the class members had until February 15, 2005 to file claims. A total of 1,311 valid claims were filed (of the 2,161 total class members), of which 613 complaints had been received prior to the Companys receipt of the claims notices. Class members who did not file a claim by February 15, 2005 are no longer able to file a class action claim under the settlement or pursue an individual claim against Trinity.
In November 2003, Beazer Homes received a request for information from the United States Environmental Protection Agency (the EPA) pursuant to Section 308 of the Clean Water Act seeking information concerning the nature and extent of storm water discharge practices relating to certain of the Companys projects completed or under construction. The EPA has since requested information on additional projects and has conducted site inspections at a number of locations. In certain instances, the EPA or the equivalent state agency has issued Administrative Orders identifying alleged instances of noncompliance and requiring corrective action to address the alleged deficiencies in storm water management practices. As of June 30, 2005, no monetary penalties have been imposed in connection with such Administrative Orders. The EPA has reserved the right to impose monetary penalties at a later date, the amount of which, if any, cannot currently be estimated. Beazer Homes has taken action to comply with the requirements of each of the Administrative Orders and is working to otherwise maintain compliance with the requirements of the Clean Water Act.
The Company and certain of its subsidiaries have been named as defendants in various claims, complaints and other legal actions, including relating to moisture intrusion and related mold claims, construction defects and product liability. Certain of the liabilities resulting from these actions are covered by insurance. With respect to certain general liability exposures, including construction defect, moisture
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intrusion and related mold claims and product liability, interpretation of underlying current and future trends, assessment of claims and the related liability and reserve estimation process is highly judgmental due to the complex nature of these exposures, with each exposure exhibiting unique circumstances. In particular, for construction defect liability there is a high degree of uncertainty relating to whether insurance coverage exists, when losses occur, the size of each loss, expectations for future interpretive rulings concerning contract provisions and the extent to which the assertion of these claims will expand geographically. In the Companys opinion, based on its current assessment, the ultimate resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on Beazer Homes financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Item 6. Exhibits
31.1 Certification pursuant to 17 CFR 240.13a-14 promulgated under Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley of 2002
31.2 Certification pursuant to 17 CFR 240.13a-14 promulgated under Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley of 2002
32.1 Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32.2 Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
Date:
July 28, 2005
By:
/s/James OLeary
Name:
James OLeary
Executive Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer
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