Hovnanian Enterprises (NYSE: HOV) reported Q1 EPS of ($0.11), $0.08 worse than the analyst estimate of ($0.03). Revenue for the quarter came in at $575.6 million versus the consensus estimate of $580.31 million.

Adjusted EBITDA was $38.8 million, from $21.3 million posted in the same period last year.

“We are pleased by our strong start to the fiscal year, which was highlighted by an 83% increase in adjusted EBITDA and a 49% increase in contract backlog dollars,” stated Ara K. Hovnanian, Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer. “During our first quarter, our 29% total revenue growth resulted in a 500 basis point improvement in our total SG&A and total interest ratios in the aggregate. Rather than focusing on additional revenue growth beyond 2016, we now plan to focus on deleveraging our balance sheet and maximizing our profitability. As part of this strategy we have decided to exit the Minneapolis, MN and Raleigh, NC markets. Additionally, we plan to wind down our operations in Tampa, FL and the San Francisco Bay Area in Northern California by delivering the remaining homes in our existing communities. We are confident these decisions will lead to continued efficiencies and ultimately improved financial performance,” concluded Mr. Hovnanian.

Guidance:

Assuming no changes in current market conditions, we reiterate our prior guidance that total revenues for all of fiscal 2016 are expected to be between $2.7 billion and $3.1 billion and pretax profit excluding land related charges, gains or losses on extinguishment of debt and other non-recurring items such as legal settlements are expected to be between $40 million and $100 million for all of fiscal 2016.

For earnings history and earnings-related data on Hovnanian Enterprises (HOV) click here.