
D.R. Horton Beats, Guides Up
Homebuilder
D.R. Horton
(DHI) - Get D.R. Horton, Inc. Report
Wednesday reported a 52% jump in fourth-quarter profit, as the nation's housing boom roared along despite the latest predictions of a long-awaited slowdown.
Texas-based Horton had net income of $349.6 million, or $1.47 a share, vs. $230.7 million, or 98 cents a share, for the same quarter of fiscal 2003. Revenue increased 23% to $3.5 billion.
Analysts were expecting $1.22, according to Thomson First Call.
Horton's sales backlog of homes under contract was a year-end record $4.6 billion, or 17,184 homes, up 25% from a year ago.
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Horton, which builds homes for the entry-level and first-time move-up markets, had strong sales in all of its regions.
The company forecast first-quarter EPS of 85 cents to 90 cents and full-year 2005 EPS of $4.50 to $4.70. The consensus estimates are 89 cents and $4.21.
The company's fourth quarter and fiscal year ended Sept. 30.
Shares ended at $31.76 Tuesday.
Toll Brothers
(TOL) - Get Toll Brothers, Inc. Report
Tuesday reported record fourth-quarter sales and offered bullish guidance.