Revenue Recognition
We recognize revenue upon the transfer of promised goods to our customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which we expect to be entitled by applying the process specified in ASC Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers.
The following table presents our total revenue disaggregated by revenue stream for the periods presented:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Fiscal Year Ended September 30, | | |
| in thousands | 2025 | | 2024 | | 2023 | | | | |
| Homebuilding revenue | $ | 2,302,630 | | | $ | 2,292,984 | | | $ | 2,198,400 | | | | | |
| Land sales and other revenue | 68,925 | | | 37,213 | | | 8,385 | | | | | |
Total revenue(a) | $ | 2,371,555 | | | $ | 2,330,197 | | | $ | 2,206,785 | | | | | |
(a) Please see Note 17 for total revenue disaggregated by reportable segment.
Homebuilding revenue
Homebuilding revenue is reported net of discounts and is generally recognized when title to and possession of the home is transferred to the buyer at the closing date. The performance obligation to deliver the home is generally satisfied in less than one year from the original contract date. Home sale contract assets consist of cash from home closings held by title companies in escrow for our benefit, typically for less than five days, and are considered accounts receivable. Contract liabilities include customer deposits related to sold but undelivered homes and totaled $14.3 million and $18.7 million as of September 30, 2025 and 2024, respectively. Of the customer liabilities outstanding as of September 30, 2024, $16.1 million was recognized in revenue during the fiscal year ended September 30, 2025 upon closing of the related homes, and $1.9 million was refunded to or forfeited by the buyer.
Land sales and other revenue
Land sales revenue relates to land that does not fit within our homebuilding programs or strategic plans. Land sales typically require cash consideration on the closing date, which is generally when performance obligations are satisfied. We also provide title examinations for our homebuyers in certain markets. Revenues associated with our title operations are recognized when closing services are rendered and title insurance policies are issued, both of which generally occur as each home is closed.
About Revenue Disclosures
Revenue disclosures under ASC 606 explain how a company identifies performance obligations, allocates transaction prices, and determines when revenue is recognized. This section is essential for understanding whether reported revenue reflects genuine economic activity or aggressive accounting choices. Analysts examine the mix of point-in-time versus over-time recognition, which directly affects revenue timing and comparability.
Key signals: rising contract liabilities (deferred revenue) suggest strong future revenue visibility, while declining contract assets may indicate slowing project milestones. Watch for variable consideration estimates — rebates, returns, and performance bonuses that require management judgment. Significant changes in disaggregated revenue by geography or product line can reveal shifting business mix before it appears in headline numbers. Compare revenue growth against contract liability growth to assess sustainability, and scrutinize any changes in the timing of recognition that coincide with earnings pressure.