Meritage Homes reported a slight year-over-year increase in home closings and a record backlog conversion rate, driven by a pivot to affordable, quick-turning move-in ready homes. Despite a decrease in average sales price, the company achieved solid financial results, including diluted EPS of $5.34. The company continued to invest in growth through land acquisition and development while also returning cash to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases.
Home closings increased by 8% year-over-year, with a record 145% backlog conversion rate.
Diluted EPS reached $5.34, supported by a home closing gross margin of 24.8% and SG&A leverage of 9.9%.
The company invested $659.4 million in land acquisition and development, adding nearly 7,800 net new lots under control.
Cash dividends and share repurchases totaled $57.1 million, reflecting a focus on returning capital to shareholders.
The Company is providing the following guidance for the fourth quarter of 2024, based on year to date results and current market conditions:
Visualization of income flow from segment revenue to net income