10-Q 1 d10q.htm FORM 10-Q FOR WILLIAM LYON HOMES Form 10-Q for William Lyon Homes
Table of Contents

 

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

 

FORM 10-Q

 

 

 

  x QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2008

OR

 

  ¨ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

Commission file number 001-31625

WILLIAM LYON HOMES

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Delaware   33-0864902
(State or other jurisdiction of   (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization)   Identification No.)
4490 Von Karman Avenue  
Newport Beach, California   92660
(Address of principal executive offices)   (Zip Code)

(949) 833-3600

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Not Applicable

(Former name, former address and former fiscal year,

if changed since last report)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

YES  ¨                    NO  x

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

Large accelerated filer  ¨                    Accelerated filer  ¨

Non-accelerated filer  x (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)              Smaller reporting company  ¨

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

YES  ¨                    NO  x

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.

 

Class of Common Stock

   Outstanding at
November 1, 2008

Common stock, par value $.01

   1,000

 

 

 


Table of Contents

WILLIAM LYON HOMES

INDEX

 

    Page
No.

PART I.    FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

Item 1.    Financial Statements:

 

Consolidated Balance Sheets — September 30, 2008 (unaudited) and December 31, 2007

  4

Consolidated Statements of Operations — Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2008  and 2007 (unaudited)

  5

Consolidated Statement of Stockholders’ Equity — Nine Months Ended September 30, 2008 (unaudited)

  6

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows — Nine Months Ended September 30, 2008 and 2007 (unaudited)

  7

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

  8

Item 2.     Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

  40

Item 3.    Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

  62

Item 4.    Controls and Procedures

  62

Item 4T. Not Applicable

  63

PART II.    OTHER INFORMATION

  64

Item 1.    Legal Proceedings

  64

Item 1A. Risk Factors

  65

Item 2.    Not Applicable

  66

Item 3.    Not Applicable

  66

Item 4.    Not Applicable

  66

Item 5.    Not Applicable

  66

Item 6.    Exhibits

  66

SIGNATURES

  67

EXHIBIT INDEX

  68

 

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NOTE ABOUT FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Investors are cautioned that certain statements contained in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, as well as some statements by the Company in periodic press releases and some oral statements by Company officials to securities analysts and stockholders during presentations about the Company are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the “Act”). Statements which are predictive in nature, which depend upon or refer to future events or conditions, or which include words such as “expects”, “anticipates”, “intends”, “plans”, “believes”, “estimates”, “hopes”, and similar expressions constitute forward-looking statements. In addition, any statements concerning future financial performance (including future revenues, earnings or growth rates), ongoing business strategies or prospects, and possible future Company actions, which may be provided by management are also forward-looking statements as defined in the Act. Forward-looking statements are based upon expectations and projections about future events and are subject to assumptions, risks and uncertainties about, among other things, the Company, economic and market factors and the homebuilding industry.

Actual events and results may differ materially from those expressed or forecasted in the forward-looking statements due to a number of factors. The principal factors that could cause the Company’s actual performance and future events and actions to differ materially from such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, changes in general economic conditions either nationally or in regions in which the Company operates, terrorism or other hostilities involving the United States, whether an ownership change occurred which could, under certain circumstances, have resulted in the limitation of the Company’s ability to offset prior years’ taxable income with net operating losses, changes in home mortgage interest rates, changes in generally accepted accounting principles or interpretations of those principles, changes in prices of homebuilding materials, labor shortages, adverse weather conditions, the occurrence of events such as landslides, soil subsidence and earthquakes that are uninsurable, not economically insurable or not subject to effective indemnification agreements, changes in governmental laws and regulations, whether the Company is able to refinance the outstanding balances of its debt obligation at their maturity, volatility in the banking industry and credit markets, the timing of receipt of regulatory approvals and the opening of projects and the availability and cost of land for future growth. While it is impossible to identify all such factors, additional factors which could cause actual results to differ materially from those estimated by the Company include, but are not limited to, those factors or conditions described under “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and in the Company’s other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company’s past performance or past or present economic conditions in the Company’s housing markets are not indicative of future performance or conditions. Investors are urged not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. In addition, the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise forward-looking statements to reflect changed assumptions, the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events or changes to projections over time unless required by federal securities law.

 

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PART I.    FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1.    Financial Statements.

WILLIAM LYON HOMES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(in thousands except number of shares and par value per share)

 

ASSETS
     September 30,
2008
   December 31,
2007
     (unaudited)     

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 115,005    $ 73,197

Restricted cash  — Note 1

     5,000      —  

Receivables — Note 8

     29,807      45,267

Real estate inventories — Notes 2 and 4

     

Owned

     894,328      1,061,660

Not owned

     109,696      144,265

Investments in and advances to unconsolidated joint ventures — Note 5

     2,057      4,671

Property and equipment, less accumulated depreciation of $13,769 and $12,093 at
September 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively

     14,928      16,092

Deferred loan costs

     7,557      9,645

Goodwill

     5,896      5,896

Deferred taxes — Note 8

     41,602      —  

Other assets

     7,696      14,635
             
   $ 1,233,572    $ 1,375,328
             
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Accounts payable

   $ 15,098    $ 40,890

Accrued expenses

     69,365      67,786

Liabilities from inventories not owned

     82,012      113,395

Notes payable

     269,492      266,932

7 5/8% Senior Notes due December 15, 2012 — Note 6

     150,000      150,000

10 3/4% Senior Notes due April 1, 2013 — Note 6

     247,830      247,553

7 1/2% Senior Notes due February 15, 2014 — Note 6

     150,000      150,000
             
     983,797      1,036,556
             

Minority interest in consolidated entities — Notes 2 and 5

     47,844      56,009
             

Stockholders’ equity — Note 9

     

Common stock, par value $.01 per share; 3,000 shares authorized;

1,000 shares outstanding at September 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively

     —        —  

Additional paid-in capital

     48,867      48,867

Retained earnings

     153,064      233,896
             
     201,931      282,763
             
   $ 1,233,572    $ 1,375,328
             

See accompanying notes.

 

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WILLIAM LYON HOMES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(in thousands)

(unaudited)

 

    Three Months Ended
September 30,
    Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
    2008     2007     2008     2007  

Operating revenue

       

Home sales

  $ 84,800     $ 182,244     $ 330,757     $ 631,844  

Lots, land and other sales

    7,943       —         39,512       27,529  

Construction services — Note 3

    9,425       —         9,425       —    
                               
    102,168       182,244       379,694       659,373  
                               

Operating costs

       

Cost of sales — homes

    (80,190 )     (159,767 )     (315,276 )     (537,644 )

Cost of sales — lots, land and other

    (8,622 )     (854 )     (40,898 )     (25,621 )

Impairment loss on real estate assets —  Note 4

    (21,910 )     (59,001 )     (68,028 )     (146,666 )

Construction services — Note 3

    (8,129 )     —         (8,129 )     —    

Sales and marketing

    (8,687 )     (14,882 )     (30,790 )     (45,587 )

General and administrative

    (6,373 )     (9,691 )     (19,872 )     (30,387 )

Other

    (231 )     (407 )     (2,005 )     (518 )
                               
    (134,142 )     (244,602 )     (484,998 )     (786,423 )
                               

Equity in (loss) income of unconsolidated joint ventures — Note 5

    (821 )     316       (1,626 )     (298 )
                               

Minority equity in (income) loss of consolidated entities — Note 2

    (628 )     (764 )     1,087       (9,982 )
                               

Operating loss

    (33,423 )     (62,806 )     (105,843 )     (137,330 )

Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized

    (7,142 )     —         (16,396 )     —    

Other (expense) income, net

    (531 )     1,494       (185 )     4,036  
                               

Loss before benefit (provision) for income taxes

    (41,096 )     (61,312 )     (122,424 )     (133,294 )
                               

Benefit (provision) for income taxes — Note 8

       

Benefit (provision) for income taxes

    —         1,300       (10 )     1,713  

Reduction of deferred tax assets as a result of election to be taxed as an “S” corporation for income tax purposes effective on January 1, 2007

    —         —         —         (31,887 )

Recordation of deferred tax assets as a result of revocation of election to be taxed as an “S” corporation for income tax purposes effective January 1, 2008

    —         —         41,602       —    
                               
    —         1,300       41,592       (30,174 )
                               

Net loss

  $ (41,096 )   $ (60,012 )   $ (80,832 )   $ (163,468 )
                               

See accompanying notes.

 

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WILLIAM LYON HOMES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2008

(in thousands)

(unaudited)

 

     Common Stock    Additional
Paid-In
Capital
   Retained
Earnings
    Total  
     Shares    Amount        

Balance — December 31, 2007

       1    $ —      $ 48,867    $ 233,896     $ 282,763  

Net loss

   —          —        —        (80,832 )     (80,832 )
                                   

Balance — September 30, 2008

   1    $ —      $ 48,867    $ 153,064     $ 201,931  
                                   

 

 

 

 

See accompanying notes.

 

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WILLIAM LYON HOMES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(in thousands)

(unaudited)

 

    Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
    2008     2007  

Operating activities

   

Net loss

  $ (80,832 )   $ (163,468 )

Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:

   

Depreciation and amortization

    1,676       1,855  

Impairment loss on real estate assets

    68,028       146,666  

Equity in loss of unconsolidated joint ventures

    1,626       298  

Distribution of income from unconsolidated joint ventures

    816       —    

Minority equity in (loss) income of consolidated entities

    (1,087 )     9,982  

(Benefit) provision for income taxes

    (41,592 )     30,174  

Net changes in operating assets and liabilities:

   

Restricted cash

    (5,000 )     —    

Receivables

    15,460       88,158  

Real estate inventories — owned

    99,581       (155,976 )

Deferred loan costs

    2,088       862  

Other assets

    6,939       (7,478 )

Accounts payable

    (25,792 )     (1,319 )

Accrued expenses

    1,569       (44,328 )
               

Net cash provided by (used) in operating activities

    43,480       (94,574 )
               

Investing activities

   

Investments in and advances to unconsolidated joint ventures

    (40 )     (4,636 )

Distributions of capital from unconsolidated joint ventures

    212       —    

Net cash paid for purchase of partner’s interest in unconsolidated joint venture

    —         (1,484 )

Purchases of property and equipment

    (512 )     (742 )
               

Net cash used in investing activities

    (340 )     (6,862 )
               

Financing activities

   

Proceeds from borrowing on notes payable

    473,458       1,286,013  

Principal payments on notes payable

    (470,898 )     (1,168,971 )

Minority interest distributions, net

    (3,892 )     (19,882 )
               

Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities

    (1,332 )     97,160  
               

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

    41,808       (4,276 )

Cash and cash equivalents — beginning of period

    73,197       38,732  
               

Cash and cash equivalents — end of period

  $ 115,005     $ 34,456  
               

Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information

   

Income tax benefit credited to additional paid-in capital and retained earnings

  $ —       $ 6,776  
               

Net changes in real estate inventories — not owned and liabilities from inventories not owned

  $ 31,383     $ 29,411  
               

Net changes in real estate inventories —  not owned and minority interests

  $ 3,186     $ 27,336  
               

Consolidation of net assets from purchase of partner’s interest in unconsolidated joint venture

  $ —       $ 41,778  
               

Consolidation of net liabilities from purchase of partner’s interest in unconsolidated joint venture

  $ —       $ 40,294  
               

 

See accompanying notes.

 

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WILLIAM LYON HOMES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

Note 1 — Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies

William Lyon Homes, a Delaware corporation, and subsidiaries (the “Company”) are primarily engaged in designing, constructing and selling single family detached and attached homes in California, Arizona and Nevada.

The unaudited consolidated financial statements of the Company have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles for interim financial information and in accordance with the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission. The consolidated financial statements do not include all of the information and footnotes required by U.S. generally accepted accounting principles for complete financial statements. The consolidated financial statements included herein should be read in conjunction with the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007.

The interim consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Company’s customary accounting practices. In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) considered necessary for a presentation in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles have been included. Operating results for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ending December 31, 2008.

The preparation of the Company’s financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of the assets and liabilities as of September 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007 and revenues and expenses for the periods presented. Accordingly, actual results could differ materially from those estimates in the near-term.

Certain reclassifications have been made to the prior period financial statements to conform to the current period presentation.

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and all majority-owned and controlled subsidiaries and joint ventures, and certain joint ventures and other entities which have been determined to be variable interest entities in which the Company is considered the primary beneficiary (see Note 2). Investments in joint ventures which have not been determined to be variable interest entities in which the Company is considered the primary beneficiary are accounted for using the equity method because the Company has a 50% or less voting or economic interest (and thus such joint ventures are not controlled by the Company). The accounting policies of the joint ventures are substantially the same as those of the Company. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

The Company designs, constructs and sells a wide range of homes designed to meet the specific needs of each of its markets. For internal reporting purposes, the Company is organized into four geographic home building regions and its mortgage origination operation. Because each of the Company’s geographic home building regions has similar economic characteristics, housing products and class of prospective buyers, the geographic home building regions have been aggregated into a single home building segment.

The Company entered into certain agreements with various affiliates of one of its joint venture equity partners to build and market homes on behalf of the affiliates. For such services, the Company will receive fees and may, under certain circumstances, receive additional compensation if certain financial thresholds are achieved.

The Company evaluates performance and allocates resources primarily based on the operating income of individual home building projects. Operating income is defined by the Company as operating revenue less

 

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WILLIAM LYON HOMES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  (Continued)

(unaudited)

 

operating costs plus equity in (loss) income of unconsolidated joint ventures less minority equity in (income) loss of consolidated entities. Accordingly, operating income excludes certain expenses included in the determination of net income. All other segment measurements are disclosed in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007.

Restricted cash consists of a $5.0 million deposit made by the Company to a restricted bank account held with the lender of one of the Company’s revolving credit facilities as collateral for the use of a letter of credit provided by such lender.

A provision for warranty costs relating to the Company’s limited warranty plans is included in cost of sales at the time the home sale is recorded. The Company generally reserves approximately one percent of the sales price of its homes against the possibility of future charges relating to its one-year limited warranty and similar potential claims. Factors that affect the Company’s warranty liability include the number of homes under warranty, historical and anticipated rates of warranty claims, and cost per claim. The Company periodically assesses the adequacy of its recorded warranty liability and adjusts the amounts as necessary. Changes in the Company’s warranty liability during the nine months ended September 30 are as follows (in thousands):

 

     September 30,  
     2008     2007  

Warranty liability, beginning of period

   $ 30,048     $ 23,364  

Warranty provision during period

     3,340       6,215  

Warranty payments during period

     (6,799 )     (10,270 )

Warranty charges related to pre-existing warranties during period

     577       2,179  
                

Warranty liability, end of period

   $ 27,166     $ 21,488  
                

In September 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued SFAS No. 157, Fair Value Measurements, (“FAS 157”). FAS 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. FAS 157 applies under other accounting pronouncements that require or permit fair value measurement and requires prospective application for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. In February 2008, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position No. FAS 157-2, “Effective Date of FASB Statement No. 157” (the “FSP”). The FSP amends FAS 157 to delay the effective date of FAS 157 for non-financial assets and non-financial liabilities, except for items that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the financial statements on a recurring basis. For items within its scope, the FSP defers the effective date of FAS 157 to fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008. The adoption of FAS 157 by the Company effective as of January 1, 2008 did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial position or results of operations.

In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS NO. 159, The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities (“FAS 159”). FAS 159 permits all entities to choose to measure eligible items at fair value at specified election dates. FAS 159 is effective as of the beginning of an entity’s first fiscal year that begins after November 15, 2007. On January 1, 2008, the Company did not elect to apply the fair value option to any specific financial assets or liabilities.

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141 (Revised), Business Combinations (“FAS 141R”). FAS 141R establishes principles and requirements for how the acquirer of a business recognizes and measures in its financial statements the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed (including intangibles), and any non-controlling interest in the acquired entity. FAS 141R also provides guidance for recognizing and measuring the goodwill acquired in the business combination and determines what information to disclose to enable users of

 

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WILLIAM LYON HOMES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  (Continued)

(unaudited)

 

the financial statements to evaluate the nature and financial effects of the business combination. FAS 141R is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008. The adoption of FAS No. 141R on January 1, 2009 will require the Company to expense all transaction costs for future business combinations, which may be significant to the Company. The Company is currently evaluating the effect FAS 141R will have on its consolidated financial statements.

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 160, Non-controlling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements-an amendment of ARB No. 51 (“FAS 160”). FAS 160 establishes accounting and reporting standards for a parent company’s non-controlling interest in a subsidiary and for the de-consolidation of a subsidiary. FAS 160 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008. The adoption of FAS No. 160 on January 1, 2009 shall be applied prospectively, except for the presentation and disclosure requirements, which shall be applied retrospectively for all periods presented, including the requirement that the non-controlling interest shall be reclassified to equity. The adoption of FAS No. 160 will require the Company to record gains or losses upon changes in control which could have a significant impact on the consolidated financial statements.

In February 2008, the FASB issued FSP No. 140-3, Accounting for Transfers of Financial Assets and Repurchase Financing Transactions (“FSP 140-3”). FSP 140-3 provides guidance on the accounting for a purchase of a financial asset from a counterparty and contemporaneous financing of the acquisition through repurchase agreements with the same counterparty. Under this guidance, the purchase and related financing are linked, unless all of the following conditions are met at the inception of the transaction: (i) the purchase and corresponding financing are not contractually contingent; (ii) the repurchase financing provides recourse; (iii) the financial asset and repurchase financing are readily obtainable in the marketplace and are executed at market rates; and (iv) the maturity of financial asset and repurchase are not coterminous. A linked transaction would require an analysis under SFAS No. 140, Accounting for Transfers and Servicing of Financial Assets and Extinguishments of Liabilities (“SFAS 140”) to determine whether the transaction meets the requirements for sale accounting. If the linked transaction does not meet sale accounting requirements, the net investment in the linked transaction is to be recorded as a derivative with the corresponding change in fair value of the derivative being recorded through earnings. The value of the derivative would reflect changes in the value of the underlying debt investments and changes in the value of the underlying credit provided by the counterparty. The Company currently presents these transactions gross, with the acquisition of the financial assets in total assets and the related repurchase agreements as financings in total liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet. The interest income earned on the debt investments and interest expense incurred on the repurchase obligations are reported gross on the consolidated income statements. FSP 140-3 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008. The Company is currently evaluating the effect that this pronouncement will have on its financial statements.

In March 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 161, Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, an amendment of SFAS No. 133, (“FAS 161”). FAS 161 applies to all derivative instruments and related hedged items accounted for under SFAS No. 133, Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities (“FAS 133”). FAS 161 requires entities to provide greater transparency about (i) how and why an entity uses derivative instruments, (ii) how derivative instruments and related hedged items are accounted for under FAS 133 and its related interpretations and (iii) how derivative instruments and related hedged items affect an entity’s financial position, results of operations, and cash flows. FAS 161 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008. The Company does not anticipate the adoption of FAS 161 to have a material impact on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

In May 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 162, The Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“SFAS 162”). SFAS 162 identifies the sources of accounting principles and the framework for selecting

 

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WILLIAM LYON HOMES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  (Continued)

(unaudited)

 

principles to be used in the preparation and presentation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP. This statement will be effective 60 days after the SEC approves the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board’s amendments to AU Section 411, The Meaning of Present Fairly in Conformity with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles. The Company does not anticipate the adoption of SFAS 162 will have a significant effect on its consolidated financial statements.

Note 2 — Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities

In January 2003, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Interpretation No. 46, Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities, as amended (“Interpretation No. 46”) which addresses the consolidation of variable interest entities (“VIEs”). Under Interpretation No. 46, arrangements that are not controlled through voting or similar rights are accounted for as VIEs. An enterprise is required to consolidate a VIE if it is the primary beneficiary of the VIE.

Under Interpretation No. 46, a VIE is created when (i) the equity investment at risk is not sufficient to permit the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support from other parties or (ii) equity holders either (a) lack direct or indirect ability to make decisions about the entity through voting or similar rights, (b) are not obligated to absorb expected losses of the entity or (c) do not have the right to receive expected residual returns of the entity if they occur. If an entity is deemed to be a VIE, pursuant to Interpretation No. 46, an enterprise that absorbs a majority of the expected losses or residual returns of the VIE is considered the primary beneficiary and must consolidate the VIE.

Based on the provisions of Interpretation No. 46, the Company has concluded that under certain circumstances when the Company (i) enters into option agreements for the purchase of land or lots from an entity and pays a non-refundable deposit, (ii) enters into land banking arrangements or (iii) enters into arrangements with a financial partner for the formation of joint ventures which engage in homebuilding and land development activities, a VIE may be created under condition (ii) (b) or (c) of the previous paragraph. The Company may be deemed to have provided subordinated financial support, which refers to variable interests that will absorb some or all of an entity’s expected losses if they occur. For each VIE created, the Company has computed expected losses and residual returns based on the probability of future cash flows as outlined in Interpretation No. 46. If the Company has been determined to be the primary beneficiary of the VIE, the assets, liabilities and operations of the VIE have been consolidated with the Company’s financial statements.

Supplemental consolidating financial information of the Company, specifically including information for the joint ventures and land banking arrangements consolidated under Interpretation No. 46, is presented below to allow investors to determine the nature of assets held and the operations of the consolidated entities. Investments in consolidated entities in the financial statements of wholly-owned entities presented below use the equity method of accounting. Consolidated real estate inventories-owned include land deposits under option agreements or land banking arrangements of $57,372,000 and $57,321,000 at September 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively.

 

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WILLIAM LYON HOMES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  (Continued)

(unaudited)

 

The joint ventures which have been determined to be VIEs are each engaged in homebuilding and land development activities. Certain of these joint ventures have not obtained construction financing from outside lenders, but are financing their activities through equity contributions from each of the joint venture partners. Creditors of these VIEs have no recourse against the general credit of the Company. Income allocations and cash distributions to the Company are based on predetermined formulas between the Company and the joint venturers as specified in the applicable partnership or operating agreements. The Company generally receives, after partners’ priority returns and return of partners’ capital, approximately 50% of the profits and cash flows from the joint ventures.

Summary information with respect to the Company’s consolidated and unconsolidated land banking arrangements is as follows as of September 30, 2008 (dollars in thousands):

 

      

Total number of land banking projects

     4
      

Total number of lots

     1,054
      

Total purchase price

   $ 231,448
      

Balance of lots still under option and not purchased:

  

Number of lots

     605
      

Purchase price

   $ 109,696
      

Forfeited deposits (cash and letters of credit) if lots are not purchased

   $ 42,003
      

 

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WILLIAM LYON HOMES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  (Continued)

(unaudited)

 

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING BALANCE SHEET BY FORM OF OWNERSHIP

(in thousands)

 

     September 30, 2008
     Wholly-
Owned
   Variable Interest
Entities Under
Interpretation
No. 46
   Eliminating
Entries
    Consolidated
Total
ASSETS

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 112,532    $ 2,473    $ —       $ 115,005

Restricted cash

     5,000      —        —         5,000

Receivables

     29,807      —        —         29,807

Real estate inventories

          

Owned

     726,253      168,075      —         894,328

Not owned

     82,012      27,684      —         109,696

Investments in and advances to unconsolidated joint ventures

     2,057      —        —         2,057

Investments in consolidated entities

     64,940      —        (64,940 )     —  

Other assets

     77,679      —        —         77,679

Intercompany receivables

     —        2,962      (2,962 )     —  
                            
   $ 1,100,280    $ 201,194    $ (67,902 )   $ 1,233,572
                            
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Accounts payable and accrued expenses

   $ 80,025    $ 4,438    $ —       $ 84,463

Liabilities from inventories not owned

     82,012      —        —         82,012

Notes payable

     186,094      83,398      —         269,492

7 5/8% Senior Notes due December 15, 2012

     150,000      —        —         150,000

10 3/4% Senior Notes due April 1, 2013

     247,830      —        —         247,830

7 1/2% Senior Notes due February 15, 2014

     150,000      —        —         150,000

Intercompany payables

     2,388      574      (2,962 )     —  
                            

Total liabilities

     898,349      88,410      (2,962 )     983,797

Minority interest in consolidated entities

     —        —        47,844       47,844

Owners’ capital

          

William Lyon Homes

     —        64,940      (64,940 )     —  

Others

     —        47,844      (47,844 )     —  

Stockholders’ equity

     201,931      —        —         201,931
                            
   $ 1,100,280    $ 201,194    $ (67,902 )   $ 1,233,572
                            

 

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WILLIAM LYON HOMES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  (Continued)

(unaudited)

 

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING BALANCE SHEET BY FORM OF OWNERSHIP

(in thousands)

 

     December 31, 2007
     Wholly-Owned    Variable Interest
Entities Under

Interpretation
No. 46
   Eliminating
Entries
    Consolidated
Total
ASSETS

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 64,357    $ 8,840    $     $ 73,197

Receivables

     45,262      5            45,267

Real estate inventories

          

Owned

     906,254      155,406            1,061,660

Not owned

     113,395      30,870            144,265

Investments in and advances to unconsolidated joint ventures

     4,671                 4,671

Investments in consolidated entities

     52,211           (52,211 )    

Other assets

     46,268                 46,268

Intercompany receivables

     1,853           (1,853 )    
                            
   $ 1,234,271    $ 195,121    $ (54,064 )   $ 1,375,328
                            
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Accounts payable and accrued expenses

   $ 100,039    $ 8,637    $     $ 108,676

Liabilities from inventories not owned

     113,395                 113,395

Notes payable

     190,521      76,411            266,932

7 5/8% Senior Notes due December 15, 2012

     150,000                 150,000

10 3/4% Senior Notes due April 1, 2013

     247,553                 247,553

7 1/2% Senior Notes due February 15, 2014

     150,000                 150,000

Intercompany payables

          1,853      (1,853 )    
                            

Total liabilities

     951,508      86,901      (1,853 )     1,036,556

Minority interest in consolidated entities

               56,009       56,009

Owners’ capital

          

William Lyon Homes

          52,211      (52,211 )    

Others

          56,009      (56,009 )    

Stockholders’ equity

     282,763                 282,763
                            
   $ 1,234,271    $ 195,121    $ (54,064 )   $ 1,375,328
                            

 

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WILLIAM LYON HOMES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  (Continued)

(unaudited)

 

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS BY FORM OF OWNERSHIP

(in thousands)

 

     Three Months Ended September 30, 2008  
     Wholly-
Owned
    Variable Interest
Entities Under
Interpretation
No. 46
    Elimination
Entries
    Consolidated
Total
 

Operating revenue

        

Sales

   $ 89,650     $ 3,093     $ —       $ 92,743  

Construction services

     9,425       —         —         9,425  

Management fees

     104       —         (104 )     —    
                                
     99,179       3,093       (104 )     102,168  
                                

Operating costs

        

Cost of sales

     (86,782 )     (2,134 )     104       (88,812 )

Loss on impairment of real estate assets

     (21,910 )     —         —         (21,910 )

Construction services

     (8,129 )     —         —         (8,129 )

Sales and marketing

     (8,173 )     (514 )     —         (8,687 )

General and administrative

     (6,373 )     —         —         (6,373 )

Other

     (231 )     —         —         (231 )
                                
     (131,598 )     (2,648 )     104       (134,142 )
                                

Equity in loss of unconsolidated joint ventures

     (821 )     —         —         (821 )
                                

Equity in loss of consolidated entities

     (163 )     —         163       —    
                                

Minority equity in income of consolidated entities

     —         —         (628 )     (628 )
                                

Operating (loss) income

     (33,403 )     445       (465 )     (33,423 )

Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized

     (7,142 )     —         —         (7,142 )

Other income, net

     (551 )     20       —         (531 )
                                

Net (loss) income

   $ (41,096 )   $ 465     $ (465 )   $ (41,096 )
                                

 

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WILLIAM LYON HOMES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  (Continued)

(unaudited)

 

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS BY FORM OF OWNERSHIP

(in thousands)

 

      Three Months Ended September 30, 2007  
     Wholly-Owned     Variable Interest
Entities Under
Interpretation
No. 46
    Eliminating
Entries
    Consolidated
Total
 

Operating revenue

        

Sales

   $ 166,634     $ 15,610     $ —       $ 182,244  

Management fees

     542       —         (542 )     —    
                                
     167,176       15,610       (542 )     182,244  
                                

Operating costs

        

Cost of sales

     (148,317 )     (12,846 )     542       (160,621 )

Impairment loss on real estate assets

     (59,001 )     —         —         (59,001 )

Sales and marketing

     (13,518 )     (1,364 )     —         (14,882 )

General and administrative

     (9,691 )     —         —         (9,691 )

Other

     (407 )     —         —         (407 )
                                
     (230,934 )     (14,210 )     542       (244,602 )
                                

Equity in income of unconsolidated joint ventures

     316       —         —         316  
                                

Equity in income of consolidated entities

     732       —         (732 )     —    
                                

Minority equity in income of consolidated entities

     —         —         (764 )     (764 )
                                

Operating (loss) income

     (62,710 )     1,400       (1,496 )     (62,806 )

Other income, net

     1,398       96       —         1,494  
                                

(Loss) income before benefit for income taxes

     (61,312 )     1,496       (1,496 )     (61,312 )

Benefit for income taxes

     1,300       —         —         1,300  
                                

Net (loss) income

   $ (60,012 )   $ 1,496     $ (1,496 )   $ (60,012 )
                                

 

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WILLIAM LYON HOMES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  (Continued)

(unaudited)

 

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS BY FORM OF OWNERSHIP

(in thousands)

 

     Nine Months Ended September 30, 2008  
     Wholly-
Owned
    Variable Interest
Entities Under
Interpretation
No. 46
    Elimination
Entries
    Consolidated
Total
 

Operating revenue

        

Sales

   $ 357,673     $ 12,596     $ —       $ 370,269  

Construction services

     9,425       —         —         9,425  

Management fees

     504       —         (504 )     —    
                                
     367,602       12,596       (504 )     379,694  
                                

Operating costs

        

Cost of sales

     (343,953 )     (12,725 )     504       (356,174 )

Loss on impairment of real estate assets

     (68,028 )     —         —         (68,028 )

Construction services

     (8,129 )     —         —         (8,129 )

Sales and marketing

     (29,094 )     (1,696 )     —         (30,790 )

General and administrative

     (19,823 )     (49 )     —         (19,872 )

Other

     (2,005 )     —         —         (2,005 )
                                
     (471,032 )     (14,470 )     504       (484,998 )
                                

Equity in loss of unconsolidated joint ventures

     (1,626 )     —         —         (1,626 )
                                

Equity in loss of consolidated entities

     (720 )     —         720       —    
                                

Minority equity in loss of consolidated entities

     —         —         1,087       1,087  
                                

Operating loss

     (105,776 )     (1,874 )     1,807       (105,843 )

Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized

     (16,396 )     —         —         (16,396 )

Other (expense) income, net

     (252 )     67       —         (185 )
                                

Loss before benefit from income taxes

     (122,424 )     (1,807 )     1,807       (122,424 )

Benefit from income taxes

     41,592       —         —         41,592  
                                

Net loss

   $ (80,832 )   $ (1,807 )   $ 1,807     $ (80,832 )
                                

 

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WILLIAM LYON HOMES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  (Continued)

(unaudited)

 

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS BY FORM OF OWNERSHIP

(in thousands)

 

     Nine Months Ended September 30, 2007  
     Wholly-
Owned
    Variable Interest
Entities Under
Interpretation
No. 46
    Elimination
Entries
    Consolidated
Total
 

Operating revenue

        

Sales

   $ 580,079     $ 96,636     $ (17,342 )   $ 659,373  

Management fees

     2,378       —         (2,378 )     —    
                                
     582,457       96,636       (19,720 )     659,373  
                                

Operating costs

        

Cost of sales

     (505,291 )     (77,694 )     19,720       (563,265 )

Loss on impairment of real estate assets

     (146,666 )     —         —         (146,666 )

Sales and marketing

     (40,006 )     (5,581 )     —         (45,587 )

General and administrative

     (30,373 )     (14 )     —         (30,387 )

Other

     (518 )     —         —         (518 )
                                
     (722,854 )     (83,289 )     19,720       (786,423 )
                                

Equity in loss of unconsolidated joint ventures

     (298 )     —         —         (298 )
                                

Equity in income of consolidated entities

     3,697       —         (3,697 )     —    
                                

Minority equity in income of consolidated entities

     —         —         (9,982 )     (9,982 )
                                

Operating (loss) income

     (136,998 )     13,347       (13,679 )     (137,330 )

Other income, net

     3,704       332       —         4,036  
                                

(Loss) income before provision for income taxes

     (133,294 )     13,679       (13,679 )     (133,294 )

Provision for income taxes

     (30,174 )     —         —         (30,174 )
                                

Net (loss) income

   $ (163,468 )   $ 13,679     $ (13,679 )   $ (163,468 )
                                

 

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WILLIAM LYON HOMES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  (Continued)

(unaudited)

 

Note 3 — Construction Services

The Company entered into construction management agreements with various affiliates of one of its joint venture equity partners to build and market homes on behalf of the affiliates in 5 separate communities. For such services, the Company will receive fees (generally 5 percent of the sales price, as defined) and may, under certain circumstances, receive additional compensation if certain financial thresholds are achieved.

The Company accounts for the construction management agreements using the Percentage of Completion Method in accordance with Statement of Position 81-1, Accounting for Performance of Construction-Type and Certain Production-Type Contracts, (“SOP 81-1”). Under SOP 81-1, the Company records revenues and expenses as work on a contract progresses, and based on the percentage of costs incurred to date compared to the total estimated costs of the contract.

Based on the provisions of SOP 81-1, the Company has recorded construction services revenues and expenses of $9,425,000 and $8,129,000, respectively, for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008, in the accompanying consolidated statement of operations.

Note 4 — Real Estate Inventories

Real estate inventories consist of the following (in thousands):

 

     September 30,
2008
   December 31,
2007

Inventories owned: (1)

     

Land deposits

   $ 57,372    $ 57,321

Land and land under development

     543,913      609,023

Homes completed and under construction

     191,305      258,161

Model homes

     101,738      137,155
             

Total

   $ 894,328    $ 1,061,660
             

Inventories not owned: (2)

     

Variable interest entities — land banking arrangement

   $ 27,684    $ 30,870

Other land options contracts

     82,012      113,395
             

Total inventories not owned

   $ 109,696    $ 144,265
             

 

(1) In 2008, the Company has temporarily suspended all development, sales and marketing activities at thirteen of its projects which are in the early stages of development. Management of the Company has concluded that this strategy is necessary under the prevailing market conditions and would allow the Company to market the properties at some future time when market conditions may have improved. The Company has incurred costs related to the thirteen projects of $238,202,000 as of September 30, 2008, of which $132,812,000 is included in Land and land under development, $63,690,000 is included in Homes completed and under construction and $41,700,000 is included in Model homes.
(2) Includes the consolidation of certain lot option arrangements and land banking arrangements determined to be VIEs under Interpretation No. 46 in which the company is considered the primary beneficiary (See Note 2 above) and the consolidation of a certain land banking arrangement recorded as a product financing arrangement. Amounts are net of deposits.

 

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Table of Contents

WILLIAM LYON HOMES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  (Continued)

(unaudited)

 

The Company accounts for its real estate inventories under Financial Accounting Standards Board Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 144, Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets (“Statement No. 144”). Statement No. 144 requires impairment losses to be recorded on real estate inventories when indicators of impairment are present and the undiscounted cash flows estimated to be generated by real estate inventories are less than the carrying amount of such assets. When an impairment loss is required for real estate inventories, the related assets are adjusted to their estimated fair value. Management determines the estimated fair value by present valuing the estimated future cash flows, including interest cost, at discount rates which are commensurate with the risk of the project under evaluation, generally ranging from 8% to 14%.

Fair value represents the amount at which an asset could be bought or sold in a current transaction between willing parties, that is, other than a forced or liquidation sale. The estimation process involved in determining if assets have been impaired and in the determination of fair value is inherently uncertain because it requires estimates of current market yields as well as future events and conditions. Such future events and conditions include economic and market conditions, as well as the availability of suitable financing to fund development and construction activities. The realization of the Company’s real estate projects is dependent upon future uncertain events and conditions and, accordingly, the actual timing and amounts realized by the Company may be materially different from those estimated.

The results of operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008, include non-cash charges of $21,910,000 and $68,028,000 respectively, to record impairment losses on real estate assets held by the Company at certain of its homebuilding projects. The impairments were primarily attributable to slower than anticipated home sales and lower than anticipated net revenue due to continued deterioration of market conditions. As a result, the future undiscounted cash flows estimated to be generated were determined to be less than the carrying amount of the assets. Accordingly, the related real estate assets were written-down to their estimated fair value. The non-cash charges are reflected in impairment loss on real estate assets in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.

 

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WILLIAM LYON HOMES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  (Continued)

(unaudited)

 

Note 5 — Investments in and Advances to Unconsolidated Joint Ventures

The Company and certain of its subsidiaries are general partners or members in joint ventures involved in the development and sale of residential projects. The consolidated financial statements of the Company include the accounts of the Company, all majority-owned and controlled subsidiaries and certain joint ventures which have been determined to be variable interest entities in which the Company is considered the primary beneficiary (see Note 2). The financial statements of joint ventures which have not been determined to be variable interest entities in which the Company is considered the primary beneficiary are not consolidated with the Company’s financial statements. The Company’s investments in unconsolidated joint ventures are accounted for using the equity method because the Company has a 50% or less voting or economic interest (and thus such joint ventures are not controlled by the Company). Condensed combined financial information of these unconsolidated joint ventures as of September 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007 is summarized as follows:

CONDENSED COMBINED BALANCE SHEETS

(in thousands)

 

     September 30,
2008
   December 31,
2007
     (unaudited)     
ASSETS

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 1,030    $ 1,912

Real estate inventories

     12,608      9,910

Investment in unconsolidated joint venture

     —        3,899
             
   $ 13,638    $ 15,721
             
LIABILITIES AND OWNERS’ CAPITAL

Accounts payable

   $ 159    $ 294

Accrued expenses

     854      —  

Notes payable

     7,389      4,991
             
     8,402      5,285
             

Owners’ capital

     

William Lyon Homes

     2,057      4,671

Others

     3,179      5,765
             
     5,236      10,436
             
   $ 13,638    $ 15,721
             

 

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WILLIAM LYON HOMES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  (Continued)

(unaudited)

 

CONDENSED COMBINED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(in thousands)

 

     Three Months Ended
September 30,
   Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
     2008         2007        2008         2007      

Operating costs

         

General and administrative

   $ (201 )   $ —      $ (621 )   $ —    

Other

     —         —        —         (743 )
                               
     (201 )     —        (621 )     (743 )
                               

Equity in income (loss) of unconsolidated joint ventures

     (1,440 )     631      (2,630 )     39  
                               

Operating loss

     (1,641 )     631      (3,251 )     (704 )

Other income, net

     —         —        —         108  
                               

Net (loss) income

   $ (1,641 )   $ 631    $ (3,251 )   $ (596 )
                               

Allocation to owners:

         

William Lyon Homes

   $ (821 )   $ 316    $ (1,626 )   $ (298 )

Others

     (820 )     315      (1,625 )     (298 )
                               
   $ (1,641 )   $ 631    $ (3,251 )   $ (596 )
                               

Income and loss allocations and cash distributions to the Company are made on a pro rata basis in accordance with the Company’s ownership interest in each respective joint venture. The Company’s ownership interest in these joint ventures is approximately 50%.

As of September 30, 2008, one of these joint ventures had obtained financing from a construction lender which amounted to $7,389,000 of outstanding indebtedness. As of September 30, 2008, the Company was not in compliance with the ratio of indebtedness to tangible net worth covenant under the loan documents. The Company and its joint venture partner have agreed to repay the $7,389,000 of outstanding indebtedness in December 2008, which would require a cash expenditure of approximately $3,694,500 (plus accrued and unpaid interest) from the Company.

Note 6 — Senior Notes

As of September 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007, the Company had the following outstanding Senior Note obligations (collectively, the “Senior Notes”) (in thousands):

 

     September 30,
2008
   December 31,
2007
     (unaudited)     

7 5/8% Senior Notes due December 15, 2012

   $ 150,000    $ 150,000

10 3/4% Senior Notes due April 1, 2013

     247,830      247,553

7 1/2% Senior Notes due February 15, 2014

     150,000      150,000
             
   $ 547,830    $ 547,553
             

 

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WILLIAM LYON HOMES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  (Continued)

(unaudited)

 

7 5/8% Senior Notes

On November 22, 2004, the Company’s 100% owned subsidiary, William Lyon Homes, Inc., a California corporation, (“California Lyon”) closed its offering of $150,000,000 principal amount of 7 5/8% Senior Notes due December 15, 2012 (the “7 5/8% Senior Notes”). The notes were sold pursuant to Rule 144A. The notes were issued at par resulting in net proceeds to the Company of approximately $148,500,000. California Lyon agreed to file a registration statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission relating to an offer to exchange the notes for publicly tradeable notes having substantially identical terms. On January 12, 2005, the Securities and Exchange Commission declared the registration statement effective and California Lyon commenced an offer to exchange any and all of its outstanding $150,000,000 aggregate principal amount of 7 5/8% Senior Notes due December 15, 2012, which are not registered under the Securities Act of 1933, for a like amount of its new 7 5/8% Senior Notes due December 15, 2012, which are registered under the Securities Act of 1933, upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the prospectus dated January 12, 2005. The exchange offer was completed for $146,500,000 principal amount of the 7 5/8% Senior Notes on February 18, 2005. The remaining $3,500,000 principal amount of the old notes was exchanged for new notes in October 2008. The terms of the new notes are identical in all material respects to those of the old notes, except for certain transfer restrictions, registration rights and liquidated damages provisions relating to the old notes. Interest on the 7 5/8% Senior Notes is payable semi-annually on December 15 and June 15 of each year.

Except as set forth in the Indenture governing the 7 5/8% Senior Notes, the 7 5/8% Senior Notes are not redeemable prior to December 15, 2008. Thereafter, the 7 5/8% Senior Notes will be redeemable at the option of California Lyon, in whole or in part, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount plus a premium declining ratably to par, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any.

In October 2008, the Company purchased, in privately negotiated transactions, $16,200,000 principal amount of its outstanding 7 5/8% Senior Notes at a cost of $3,564,000, plus accrued interest. The net gain resulting from the purchase, after giving effect to amortization of related deferred loan costs was $12,516,000. Upon settlement of the transaction, the Company authorized these notes to be cancelled, leaving $133,800,000 in principal outstanding.

10 3/4% Senior Notes

California Lyon filed a Registration Statement on Form S-3 with the Securities and Exchange Commission for the sale of $250,000,000 of Senior Notes due 2013 (the “10 3/4% Senior Notes”) which became effective on March 12, 2003. The offering closed on March 17, 2003 and was fully subscribed and issued. The notes were issued at a price of 98.493% to the public, resulting in net proceeds to the Company of approximately $246,233,000. The purchase price reflected a discount to yield 11% under the effective interest method and the notes have been reflected net of the unamortized discount in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet. Interest on the 10 3/4% Senior Notes is payable on April 1 and October 1 of each year.

Except as set forth in the Indenture governing the 10 3/4% Senior Notes, the 10 3/4% Senior Notes were not redeemable prior to April 1, 2008. Thereafter, the 10 3/4% Senior Notes are redeemable at the option of California Lyon, in whole or in part, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount plus a premium declining ratably to par, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any.

In October 2008, the Company purchased, in privately negotiated transactions, $30,000,000 principal amount of its outstanding 10 3/4% Senior Notes at a cost of $7,500,000, plus accrued interest. The net gain resulting from the purchase, after giving effect to amortization of related deferred loan costs and unamortized discount costs was $21,799,000. Upon settlement of the transaction, the Company authorized these notes to be cancelled, leaving $220,000,000 in principal outstanding.

 

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WILLIAM LYON HOMES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  (Continued)

(unaudited)

 

7 1/2% Senior Notes

On February 6, 2004, California Lyon closed its offering of $150,000,000 principal amount of 7 1/2% Senior Notes due 2014 (the “7 1/2% Senior Notes”). The notes were sold pursuant to Rule 144A and outside the United States to non-U.S. persons in reliance on Regulation S. The notes were issued at par, resulting in net proceeds to the Company of approximately $147,600,000. California Lyon agreed to file a registration statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission relating to an offer to exchange the notes for publicly tradeable notes having substantially identical terms. On July 16, 2004, the Securities and Exchange Commission declared the registration statement effective and California Lyon commenced an offer to exchange any and all of its outstanding $150,000,000 aggregate principal amount of 7 1/2% Senior Notes due 2014, which are not registered under the Securities Act of 1933, for a like amount of its new 7 1/2% Senior Notes due 2014, which are registered under the Securities act of 1933, upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the prospectus dated July 16, 2004. The exchange offer was completed for the full principal amount of the 7 1/2% Senior Notes on August 17, 2004. The terms of the new notes are identical in all material respects to those of the old notes, except for certain transfer restrictions, registration rights and liquidated damages provisions relating to the old notes. Interest on the 7 1/2% Senior Notes is payable on February 15 and August 15 of each year.

Except as set forth in the Indenture governing the 7 1/2% Senior Notes, the 7 1/2% Senior Notes are not redeemable prior to February 15, 2009. Thereafter, the 7 1/2% Senior Notes will be redeemable at the option of California Lyon, in whole or in part, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount plus a premium declining ratably to par, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any.

In October 2008, the Company purchased, in privately negotiated transactions, $25,700,000 principal amount of its outstanding 7 1/2% Senior Notes at a cost of $5,654,000, plus accrued interest. The net gain resulting from the purchase, after giving effect to amortization of related deferred loan costs was $19,728,000. Upon settlement of the transaction, the Company authorized these notes to be cancelled, leaving $124,300,000 in principal outstanding.

*    *    *    *    *

The Senior Notes are senior unsecured obligations of California Lyon and are unconditionally guaranteed on a senior unsecured basis by William Lyon Homes, a Delaware corporation (“Delaware Lyon”), which is the parent company of California Lyon, and all of Delaware Lyon’s existing and certain of its future restricted subsidiaries. The Senior Notes and the guarantees rank senior to all of the Company’s and the guarantors’ debt that is expressly subordinated to the Senior Notes and the guarantees, but are effectively subordinated to all of the Company’s and the guarantors’ senior secured indebtedness to the extent of the value of the assets securing that indebtedness.

Upon a change of control as described in the respective Indentures governing the Senior Notes (the “Senior Notes Indentures”), California Lyon will be required to offer to purchase the Senior Notes at a purchase price equal to 101% of the principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any.

If the Company’s consolidated tangible net worth falls below $75,000,000 for any two consecutive fiscal quarters, California Lyon will be required to make an offer to purchase up to 10% of each class of Senior Notes originally issued at a purchase price equal to 100% of the principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any.

California Lyon is 100% owned by Delaware Lyon. Each subsidiary guarantor is 100% owned by California Lyon or Delaware Lyon. All guarantees of the Senior Notes are full and unconditional and all of such guarantees are joint and several. There are no significant restrictions on the ability of Delaware Lyon or any guarantor to obtain funds from subsidiaries by dividend or loan.

 

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WILLIAM LYON HOMES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  (Continued)

(unaudited)

 

The Senior Notes Indentures contain covenants that limit the ability of Delaware Lyon and its restricted subsidiaries to, among other things: (i) incur additional indebtedness; (ii) pay dividends or make other distributions or repurchase its stock; (iii) make investments; (iv) sell assets; (v) incur liens; (vi) enter into agreements restricting the ability of Delaware Lyon’s restricted subsidiaries (other than California Lyon) to pay dividends; (vii) enter into transactions with affiliates; and (viii) consolidate, merge or sell all or substantially all of Delaware Lyon’s and California Lyon’s assets. These covenants are subject to a number of important exceptions and qualifications as described in the Senior Notes Indentures.

The foregoing summary is not a complete description of the Senior Notes and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the Senior Notes Indentures.

The net proceeds of the offerings were used to repay amounts outstanding under revolving credit facilities and other indebtedness. The remaining proceeds were used to pay fees and commissions related to the offering and for other general corporate purposes.

At September 30, 2008, the Company had approximately $186,094,000 of secured indebtedness (excluding approximately $83,399,000 of secured indebtedness of consolidated entities — see Note 2) and approximately $9,653,000 of additional secured indebtedness available to be borrowed under the Company’s credit facilities, as limited by the Company’s borrowing base formulas.

Supplemental consolidating financial information of the Company, specifically including information for California Lyon, the issuer of the 10 3/4% Senior Notes, the 7 1/2% Senior Notes and the 7 5/8% Senior Notes, and Delaware Lyon and the guarantor subsidiaries is presented below. Investments in subsidiaries are presented using the equity method of accounting. Separate financial statements of California Lyon and the guarantor subsidiaries are not provided, as the consolidating financial information contained herein provides a more meaningful disclosure to allow investors to determine the nature of assets held and the operations of the combined groups.

 

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WILLIAM LYON HOMES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  (Continued)

(unaudited)

 

CONSOLIDATING BALANCE SHEET

September 30, 2008

(in thousands)

 

     Unconsolidated          
     Delaware
Lyon
   California
Lyon
  Guarantor
Subsidiaries
  Non-Guarantor
Subsidiaries
  Eliminating
Entries
    Consolidated
Company
ASSETS

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ —      $ 109,261   $ 2,658   $ 3,086   $ —       $ 115,005

Restricted cash

     —        5,000     —       —       —         5,000

Receivables

     —        17,691     12,116     —       —         29,807

Real estate inventories

             

Owned

     —        726,253     —       168,075     —         894,328

Not Owned

     —        109,696     —       —       —         109,696

Investments in and advances to unconsolidated joint ventures

     —        2,057     —       —       —         2,057

Property and equipment, net

     —        2,465     12,463     —       —         14,928

Deferred loan costs

     —        7,557     —       —       —         7,557

Goodwill

     —        5,896     —       —       —         5,896

Deferred taxes

     —        41,602     —       —       —         41,602

Other assets

     —        6,025     1,671     —       —         7,696

Investments in subsidiaries

     201,931      65,403     8,698     —       (276,032 )     —  

Intercompany receivables

     —        —       196,008     2,962     (198,970 )     —  
                                       
   $ 201,931    $ 1,098,906   $ 233,614   $ 174,123   $ (475,002 )   $ 1,233,572
                                       
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Accounts payable

   $ —      $ 10,416   $ 244   $ 4,438   $ —       $ 15,098

Accrued expenses

     —        67,604     1,625     136     —         69,365

Liabilities from inventories not owned

     —        82,012     —       —       —         82,012

Notes payable

     —        175,276     10,818     83,398     —         269,492

7 5/8% Senior Notes

     —        150,000     —       —       —         150,000

10 3/4% Senior Notes

     —        247,830     —       —       —         247,830

7 1/2% Senior Notes

     —        150,000     —       —       —         150,000

Intercompany payables

     —        198,382     —       588     (198,970 )     —  
                                       

Total liabilities

     —        1,081,520     12,687     88,560     (198,970 )     983,797

Minority interest in consolidated entities

     —        —       —       —       47,844       47,844

Stockholders’ equity

     201,931      17,386     220,927     85,563     (323,876 )     201,931
                                       
   $ 201,931    $ 1,098,906   $ 233,614   $ 174,123   $ (475,002 )   $ 1,233,572
                                       

 

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Table of Contents

WILLIAM LYON HOMES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  (Continued)

(unaudited)

 

CONSOLIDATING BALANCE SHEET

December 31, 2007

(in thousands)

 

     Unconsolidated           
     Delaware
Lyon
   California
Lyon
   Guarantor
Subsidiaries
   Non-Guarantor
Subsidiaries
   Eliminating
Entries
    Consolidated
Company

ASSETS

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ —      $ 55,412    $ 6,931    $ 10,854    $ —       $ 73,197

Receivables

     —        32,345      12,901      21      —         45,267

Real estate inventories

                

Owned

     —        897,880      —        163,780      —         1,061,660

Not owned

     —        144,265      —        —        —         144,265

Investments in and advances to unconsolidated joint ventures

     —        4,671      —        —        —         4,671

Property and equipment, net

     —        2,592      13,500      —        —         16,092

Deferred loan costs

     —        9,645      —        —        —         9,645

Goodwill

     —        5,896      —        —        —         5,896

Other assets

     —        12,243      2,392      —        —         14,635

Investments in subsidiaries

     282,763      67,430      8,693      —        (358,886 )     —  

Intercompany receivables

     —        —        192,714      4,075      (196,789 )     —  
                                          
   $ 282,763    $ 1,232,379    $ 237,131    $ 178,730    $ (555,675 )   $ 1,375,328
                                          

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Accounts payable

   $ —      $ 33,028    $ 391    $ 7,471    $ —       $ 40,890

Accrued expenses

     —        62,125      3,493      2,168      —         67,786

Liabilities from inventories not owned

     —        113,395      —        —        —         113,395

Notes payable

     —        179,067      11,454      76,411      —         266,932

7 5/8% Senior Notes

     —        150,000      —        —        —         150,000

10 3/4% Senior Notes

     —        247,553      —        —        —         247,553

7 1/2% Senior Notes

     —        150,000      —        —        —         150,000

Intercompany payables

     —        196,678      —        111      (196,789 )     —  
                                          

Total liabilities

     —        1,131,846      15,338      86,161      (196,789 )     1,036,556

Minority interest in consolidated entities

     —        —        —        —        56,009       56,009

Stockholders’ equity

     282,763      100,533      221,793      92,569      (414,895 )     282,763
                                          
   $ 282,763    $ 1,232,379    $ 237,131    $ 178,730    $ (555,675 )   $ 1,375,328
                                          

 

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Table of Contents

WILLIAM LYON HOMES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  (Continued)

(unaudited)

 

CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

Three Months Ended September 30, 2008

(in thousands)

 

    Unconsolidated              
    Delaware
Lyon
    California
Lyon
    Guarantor
Subsidiaries
    Non-Guarantor
Subsidiaries
    Eliminating
Entries
    Consolidated
Company
 

Operating revenue

           

Sales

  $ —       $ 78,086     $ 11,564     $ 3,093     $ —       $ 92,743  

Construction services

    —         9,425       —         —         —         9,425  

Management fees

    —         104       —         —         (104 )     —    
                                               
    —         87,615       11,564       3,093       (104 )     102,168  
                                               

Operating costs

           

Cost of sales

    —         (76,366 )     (10,416 )     (2,134 )     104       (88,812 )

Loss on impairment of real estate assets

    —         (21,910 )     —         —         —         (21,910 )

Construction services

    —         (8,129 )     —         —         —         (8,129 )

Sales and marketing

    —         (7,484 )     (689 )     (514 )     —         (8,687 )

General and administrative

    —         (6,280 )     (93 )     —         —         (6,373 )

Other

    —         (276 )     45       —         —         (231 )
                                               
    —         (120,445 )     (11,153 )     (2,648 )     104       (134,142 )
                                               

Equity in loss of unconsolidated joint ventures

    —         (821 )     —         —         —         (821 )
                                               

(Loss) income from subsidiaries

    (41,096 )     (597 )     1       —         41,692       —    
                                               

Minority equity in income of consolidated entities

    —         —         —         —         (628 )     (628 )
                                               

Operating (loss) income

    (41,096 )     (34,248 )     412       445       41,064       (33,423 )

Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized

    —         (7,142 )     —         —         —         (7,142 )

Other income (loss), net

    —         405       (953 )     17       —         (531 )
                                               

Net (loss) income

  $ (41,096 )   $ (40,985 )   $ (541 )   $ 462     $ 41,064     $ (41,096 )
                                               

 

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Table of Contents

WILLIAM LYON HOMES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  (Continued)

(unaudited)

 

CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

Three Months Ended September 30, 2007

(in thousands)

 

    Unconsolidated              
    Delaware
Lyon
    California
Lyon
    Guarantor
Subsidiaries
    Non-Guarantor
Subsidiaries
    Eliminating
Entries
    Consolidated
Company
 

Operating revenue

           

Sales

  $ —       $ 144,152     $ 22,482     $ 15,610     $ —       $ 182,244  

Management fees

    —         542       —         —         (542 )     —    
                                               
    —         144,694       22,482       15,610       (542 )     182,244  
                                               

Operating costs

           

Cost of sales

    —         (130,338 )     (17,979 )     (12,846 )     542       (160,621 )

Impairment loss on real estate assets

    —         (59,001 )     —         —         —         (59,001 )

Sales and marketing

    —         (12,158 )     (1,360 )     (1,364 )     —         (14,882 )

General and administrative

    —         (9,592 )     (99 )     —         —         (9,691 )

Other

    —         (414 )     7       —         —         (407 )
                                               
    —         (211,503 )     (19,431 )     (14,210 )     542       (244,602 )
                                               

Equity in income (loss) of unconsolidated joint ventures

    —         316       —         —         —         316  
                                               

(Loss) income from subsidiaries

    (60,012 )     3,427       7       —         56,578       —    
                                               

Minority equity in income of consolidated entities

    —         —         —         —         (764 )     (764 )
                                               

Operating (loss) income

    (60,012 )     (63,066 )     3,058       1,400       55,814       (62,806 )

Other income, net

    —         505       899       90       —         1,494  
                                               

(Loss) income before provision for income taxes

    (60,012 )     (62,561 )     3,957       1,490       55,814       (61,312 )

Provision for income taxes

    —         1,300       —         —         —         1,300  
                                               

Net (loss) income

  $ (60,012 )   $ (61,261 )   $ 3,957     $ 1,490     $ 55,814     $ (60,012 )
                                               

 

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Table of Contents

WILLIAM LYON HOMES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  (Continued)

(unaudited)

 

CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2008

(in thousands)

 

    Unconsolidated              
    Delaware
Lyon
    California
Lyon
    Guarantor
Subsidiaries
    Non-Guarantor
Subsidiaries
    Eliminating
Entries
    Consolidated
Company
 

Operating revenue

           

Sales

  $ —       $ 318,550     $ 39,123     $ 12,596     $ —       $ 370,269  

Construction services

    —         9,425       —         —         —         9,425  

Management fees

    —         504       —         —         (504 )     —    
                                               
    —         328,479       39,123       12,596       (504 )     379,694  
                                               

Operating costs

           

Cost of sales

    —         (308,532 )     (35,421 )     (12,725 )     504       (356,174 )

Impairment loss on real estate assets

    —         (68,028 )     —         —         —         (68,028 )

Construction services

    —         (8,129 )     —         —         —         (8,129 )

Sales and marketing

    —         (26,498 )     (2,596 )     (1,696 )     —         (30,790 )

General and administrative

    —         (19,513 )     (311 )     (48 )     —         (19,872 )

Other

    —         (2,050 )     45       —         —         (2,005 )
                                               
    —         (432,750 )     (38,283 )     (14,469 )     504       (484,998 )
                                               

Equity in loss of unconsolidated joint ventures

    —         (1,626 )     —         —         —         (1,626 )
                                               

(Loss) income from subsidiaries

    (80,832 )     (1,512 )     6       —         82,338       —    
                                               

Minority equity in loss of consolidated entities

    —         —         —         —         1,087       1,087  
                                               

Operating (loss) income

    (80,832 )     (107,409 )     846       (1,873 )     83,425       (105,843 )

Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized

    —         (16,396 )     —         —         —         (16,396 )

Other income (expense), net

    —         1,384       (1,637 )     68       —         (185 )
                                               

Loss before benefit for income taxes

    (80,832 )     (122,421 )     (791 )     (1,805 )     83,425       (122,424 )

Benefit for income taxes

    —         41,592       —         —         —         41,592  
                                               

Net loss

  $ (80,832 )   $ (80,829 )   $ (791 )   $ (1,805 )   $ 83,425     $ (80,832 )
                                               

 

30


Table of Contents

WILLIAM LYON HOMES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  (Continued)

(unaudited)

 

CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2007

(in thousands)

 

    Unconsolidated              
    Delaware
Lyon
    California
Lyon
    Guarantor
Subsidiaries
    Non-Guarantor
Subsidiaries
    Eliminating
Entries
    Consolidated
Company
 

Operating revenue

           

Sales

  $ —       $ 490,460     $ 89,619     $ 96,636     $ (17,342 )   $ 659,373  

Management fees

    —         2,378       —         —         (2,378 )     —    
                                               
    —         492,838       89,619       96,636       (19,720 )     659,373  
                                               

Operating costs

           

Cost of sales

    —         (434,375 )     (70,916 )     (77,694 )     19,720       (563,265 )

Impairment loss on real estate assets

    —         (146,666 )     —         —         —         (146,666 )

Sales and marketing

    —         (34,964 )     (5,042 )     (5,581 )     —         (45,587 )

General and administrative

    —         (30,069 )     (304 )     (14 )     —         (30,387 )

Other

    —         (414 )     (104 )     —         —         (518 )
                                               
    —         (646,488 )     (76,366 )     (83,289 )     19,720       (786,423 )
                                               

Equity in income (loss) of unconsolidated joint ventures

    —         74       (372 )     —         —         (298 )
                                               

(Loss) income from subsidiaries

    (163,468 )     15,911       20       —         147,537       —    
                                               

Minority equity in income of consolidated entities

    —         —         —         —         (9,982 )     (9,982 )
                                               

Operating (loss) income

    (163,468 )     (137,665 )     12,901       13,347       137,555       (137,330 )

Other income, net

    —         1,163       2,537       336       —         4,036  
                                               

Income (loss) before provision for income taxes

    (163,468 )     (136,502 )     15,438       13,683       137,555       (133,294 )

Provision for income taxes

    —         (30,174 )     —         —         —         (30,174 )
                                               

Net (loss) income

  $ (163,468 )   $ (166,676 )   $ 15,438     $ 13,683     $ 137,555     $ (163,468 )
                                               

 

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Table of Contents

WILLIAM LYON HOMES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  (Continued)

(unaudited)

 

CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2008

(in thousands)

 

    Unconsolidated              
    Delaware
Lyon
    California
Lyon
    Guarantor
Subsidiaries
    Non-Guarantor
    Subsidiaries    
    Eliminating
Entries
    Consolidated
Company
 

Operating activities

           

Net loss

  $ (80,832 )   $ (80,829 )   $ (791 )   $ (1,805 )   $ 83,425     $ (80,832 )

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:

           

Depreciation and amortization

    —         632       1,044       —         —         1,676  

Impairment loss on real estate assets

    —         68,028       —         —         —         68,028  

Equity in loss of unconsolidated joint ventures

    —         1,626       —         —         —         1,626  

Distribution of income from unconsolidated joint ventures

    —         816       —         —         —         816  

Minority equity in loss of consolidated entities

    —         —         —         —         (1,087 )     (1,087 )

Equity in earnings (loss) of subsidiaries

    80,832       1,512       (6 )     —         (82,338 )     —    

Benefit from income taxes

    —         (41,592 )     —         —         —         (41,592 )

Net changes in operating assets and liabilities:

           

Restricted cash

    —         (5,000 )     —         —         —         (5,000 )

Receivables

    —         14,654       785       21       —         15,460  

Intercompany receivables/payables

    —         —         (3,294 )     1,590       1,704       —    

Real estate inventories — owned

    —         103,876       —         (4,295 )     —         99,581  

Deferred loan costs

    —         2,088       —         —         —         2,088  

Other assets

    —         6,218       721       —         —         6,939  

Accounts payable

    —         (22,612 )     (147 )     (3,033 )     —         (25,792 )

Accrued expenses

    —         5,469       (1,868 )     (2,032 )     —         1,569  
                                               

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities

    —         54,886       (3,556 )     (9,554 )     1,704       43,480  
                                               

Investing activities

           

Net change in investment in and advances to unconsolidated joint ventures

    —         (40 )     —         —         —         (40 )

Distributions of capital from unconsolidated joint ventures

    —         212       —         —         —         212  

Purchases of property and equipment

    —         (505 )     (7 )     —         —         (512 )

Investments in subsidiaries

    —         515       1       —         (516 )     —    

Advances to affiliates

    —         2,572       —         —         (2,572 )     —    
                                               

Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities

    —         2,754       (6 )     —         (3,088 )     (340 )
                                               

Financing activities

           

Proceeds from borrowings on notes payable

    —         269,341       197,130       6,987       —         473,458  

Principal payments on notes payable

    —         (273,132 )     (197,766 )     —         —         (470,898 )

Minority interest distributions, net

    —         —         —         —         (3,892 )     (3,892 )

Advances to affiliates

    —         —         (75 )     (5,201 )     5,276       —    
                                               

Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities

    —         (3,791 )     (711 )     1,786       1,384       (1,322 )
                                               

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

    —         53,849       (4,273 )     (7,768 )     —         41,808  

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

    —         55,412       6,931       10,854       —         73,197  
                                               

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

  $ —       $ 109,261     $ 2,658     $ 3,086     $ —       $ 115,005  
                                               

 

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Table of Contents

WILLIAM LYON HOMES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  (Continued)

(unaudited)

 

CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2007

(in thousands)

 

     Unconsolidated              
     Delaware
Lyon
    California
Lyon
    Guarantor
Subsidiaries
    Non-Guarantor
    Subsidiaries    
    Eliminating
Entries
    Consolidated
Company
 
                                      

Operating activities:

            

Net (loss) income

   $ (163,468 )   $ (166,676 )   $ 15,438     $ 13,683     $ 137,555     $ (163,468 )

Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) income to net cash (used in) provided by operating activities:

            

Depreciation and amortization

     —         1,115       740       —         —         1,855  

Equity in (income) loss of unconsolidated joint ventures

     —         (74 )     372       —         —         298  

Minority equity in income of consolidated entities

     —         —         —         —         9,982       9,982  

Equity in loss (earnings) of subsidiaries

     163,468       (15,911 )     (20 )     —         (147,537 )     —    

Impairment loss on real estate asset

     —         146,666       —         —         —         146,666  

Provision for income taxes

     —         30,174       —         —         —         30,174  

Net changes in operating assets and liabilities:

            

Receivables

     —         46,167       41,472       519       —         88,158  

Intercompany receivables/payables

     —         —         (18,692 )     (2,141 )    
20,833
 
    —    

Real estate inventories owned

     —         (179,239 )     1,785       21,478       —         (155,976 )

Real estate inventories not owned

     —         27,336       —         —         —         27,336  

Deferred loan costs

     —         862       —         —         —         862  

Other assets

     —         (8,246 )     768       —         —         (7,478 )

Accounts payable

     —         31       (713 )     (637 )     —         (1,319 )

Accrued expenses

     —         (39,205 )     (5,113 )     (10 )     —         (44,328 )
                                                

Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities

     —         (157,000 )     36,037       32,892       20,833       (67,238 )
                                                

Investing activities:

            

Net change in investment in unconsolidated joint ventures

     —         (4,264 )     (372 )     —         —         (4,636 )

Net cash paid for purchase of partner’s interest in unconsolidated joint venture

    
—  
 
   
(1,484
)
   
—  
 
   
—  
 
   
—  
 
   
(1,484
)

Purchases of property and equipment

     —         (487 )     (255 )     —         —         (742 )

Investments in subsidiaries

     —         23,874       (1 )     —         (23,873 )     —    

Advances (to) from affiliates

     —         (14,341 )     —         —         14,341       —    
                                                

Net cash used in investing activities

     —         3,298       (628 )     —         (9,532 )     (6,862 )
                                                

Financing activities:

            

Proceeds from borrowings on notes payable

     —         737,534       554,086       (5,607 )     —         1,286,013  

Principal payments on notes payable

     —         (573,886 )     (595,085 )     —         —         (1,168,971 )

Minority interest distributions, net

     —         —         —         (47,218 )     —         (47,218 )

Advances (to) from affiliates

     —         —         (916 )     12,217       (11,301 )     —    
                                                

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

     —         163,648       (41,915 )     (40,608 )     (11,301 )     69,824  
                                                

Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents

     —         9,946       (6,506 )     (7,716 )     —         (4,276 )

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

     —         12,253       11,222       15,257       —         38,732  
                                                

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

   $ —       $ 22,199     $ 4,716     $ 7,541     $ —       $ 34,456  
                                                

 

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Table of Contents

WILLIAM LYON HOMES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  (Continued)

(unaudited)

 

Note 7 — Related Party Transactions

On October 26, 2000, the Company’s Board of Directors (with Messrs. William Lyon and William H. Lyon abstaining) approved the purchase of 579 lots for a total purchase price of $12,581,000 from an entity controlled by William Lyon and William H. Lyon. The terms of the purchase agreement provided for an initial option payment of $1,000,000 and a rolling option takedown of the lots. In addition, one-half of the net profits in excess of six percent from the development were to be paid to the seller. Phased takedowns of approximately 20 lots each occurred at periodic intervals for each of several product types through September 2004. During the three months ended March 31, 2007, $8,305,000 was paid to the seller, and a total amount has been paid of $14,015,000 as of March 31, 2007. This land acquisition qualified as an affiliate transaction under the Company’s 12 1/2% Senior Notes due July 1, 2003 Indenture dated as of June 29, 1994, as amended (“Old Indenture”). Pursuant to the terms of the Old Indenture, the Company determined that the land acquisition is on terms that are no less favorable to the Company than those that would have been obtained in a comparable transaction by the Company with an unrelated person. The Company delivered to the Trustee under the Old Indenture a resolution of the Board of Directors of the Company set forth in an Officers’ Certificate certifying that the land acquisition is on terms that are no less favorable to the Company than those that would have been obtained in a comparable transaction by the Company with an unrelated person and the land acquisition was approved by a majority of the disinterested members of the Board of Directors of the Company. Further, the Company delivered to the Trustee under the Indenture a determination of value by a real estate appraisal firm which is of regional standing in the region in which the subject property is located and is MAI certified.

For the three months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, the Company incurred reimbursable on-site labor costs of $51,000 and $42,000, respectively, for providing customer service to real estate projects developed by entities controlled by William Lyon and William H. Lyon, of which $32,000 and $89,000 was due to the Company at September 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively. For the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, the Company incurred reimbursable on-site labor costs of $146,000 and $121,000, respectively, for providing customer service to real estate projects developed by entities controlled by William Lyon and William H. Lyon.

For the three months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, the Company incurred charges of $197,000 and $189,000, respectively related to rent on its corporate office, from a trust of which William H. Lyon is the sole beneficiary. For the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, the Company incurred charges of $582,000 and $566,000, respectively, related to rent on its corporate office, from a trust of which William H. Lyon is the sole beneficiary.

Effective September 1, 2004, the Company entered into an aircraft consulting and management agreement with an affiliate (the “Affiliate”) of William Lyon to operate and manage the Company’s aircraft. The terms of the agreement provide that the Affiliate shall consult and render its advice and management services to the Company with respect to all functions necessary to the operation, maintenance and administration of the aircraft. The Company’s business plan for the aircraft includes (i) use by Company executives for traveling on Company business to the Company’s divisional offices and other destinations, (ii) charter service to outside third parties and (iii) charter service to William Lyon personally. Charter services for outside third parties are contracted for at market rates. As compensation to the Affiliate for its management and consulting services under the agreement, the Company pays the Affiliate a fee equal to (i) the amount equal to 107% of compensation paid by the affiliate for the pilots supplied pursuant to the agreement, (ii) $50 per operating hour for the aircraft and (iii) $9,000 per month for hangar rent. In addition, all maintenance work, inspections and repairs performed by the Affiliate on the aircraft are charged to the Company at the Affiliate’s published rates for maintenance, inspections and repairs in effect at the time such work is completed. The total compensation paid to the Affiliate under the agreement

 

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Table of Contents

WILLIAM LYON HOMES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  (Continued)

(unaudited)

 

amounted to $684,000 and $406,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively, and $1,331,000 and $1,022,000, for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

General William Lyon entered into a time sharing agreement (“the Agreement”) with the Company pertaining to his personal use of the aircraft. The agreement calls for General Lyon to reimburse the company for all costs incurred by the Company during his personal flights plus a surcharge on fuel consumption of two times the cost. Pursuant to the agreement, the Company had earned revenue of $60,000 and $263,000 for charter services provided to William Lyon personally, during the three months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively, and $64,000 and $337,000 was due to the Company at September 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively. For the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, the Company had earned revenue of $283,000 and $461,000, respectively for charter services provided to General Lyon, personally.

The Company and one of the Company’s directors, Alex Meruelo, are parties to an agreement pursuant to which Mr. Meruelo is eligible to receive a finder’s fee based upon the cash distributions received by a subsidiary of the Company from a joint venture development project relating to a portion of the Fort Ord military base in Monterey County, California. The joint venture development project resulted from Mr. Meruelo’s introduction of the Company to Woodman Development Company, LLC (“Woodman”) and the subsequent formation of East Garrison Partners I, LLC (“EGP”) as a joint venture between Woodman and Lyon East Garrison Company I, LLC (“EGC”). The finder’s fee will equal 5% of all net cash distributions distributed by EGP to EGC with respect to EGC’s existing 50% interest in EGP that are in excess of distributions with respect to certain deficit advances, deficit preferred returns, returns of capital and preferred returns on unreturned capital. The calculation of the finder’s fee will be based on net cash distributions received from EGP on land sales and will not be determined on the basis of any revenues, profits or distributions received from any affiliate of EGC for the construction and sale or leasing of residential or commercial buildings on such lots. Mr. Meruelo is not obligated to perform any services for EGC other than the introduction to Woodman.

The Company offers home mortgage loans to its employees and directors through its mortgage company subsidiary, William Lyon Financial Services. These loans are made in the ordinary course of business and on substantially the same terms, including interest rates and collateral, as those prevailing at the time for comparable transactions with other persons. These loans do not involve more than the normal risk of collectibility or present other unfavorable features and are sold to investors typically within 7 to 15 days.

Note 8 — Income Taxes

Effective January 1, 2007, the Company made an election in accordance with federal and state regulations to be taxed as an “S” corporation rather than a “C” corporation. Under this election, the Company’s taxable income flowed through to and was reported on the personal tax returns of its shareholders. The shareholders were responsible for paying the appropriate taxes based on this election. The Company did not pay any federal taxes under this election and was only required to pay certain state taxes based on a rate of approximately 1.5% of taxable income. As a result of this election, the Company’s provision for income taxes for the nine months ended September 30, 2007 included a reduction of deferred tax assets of $31,887,000 due to the elimination of any future tax benefit by the Company from such assets. In addition, unused recognized built in losses in the amount of $19,414,000 were no longer available to the Company.

Effective January 1, 2008, the Company and its shareholders made a revocation of the “S” corporation election. As a result of this revocation, the Company will be taxed as a “C” corporation. The shareholders will not be able to elect “S” corporation status for at least five years. The revocation of the “S” corporation election

 

35


Table of Contents

WILLIAM LYON HOMES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  (Continued)

(unaudited)

 

will allow taxable losses generated in 2008 to be carried back to the 2006 “C” corporation year. As a result of the change in tax status, the Company recorded a deferred tax asset and related income tax benefit of $41,602,000 as of January 1, 2008. The recorded deferred tax asset reflects the anticipated tax refund for the carry back of the estimated 2008 tax loss to 2006. The Company expects to receive the tax refund in early 2009. In addition, as of January 1, 2008, the Company has unused built-in losses of $19,414,000 which are available to offset future income and expire between 2010 and 2011. The utilization of these losses is limited to $3,883,000 of taxable income per year; however, any unused losses in any year may be carried forward for utilization in future years through 2010 and 2011. The maximum cumulative unused built-in loss that may be carried forward through 2010 and 2011 is $11,526,000 and $7,888,000, respectively. The Company’s ability to utilize the foregoing tax benefits will depend upon the amount of its future taxable income and may be limited under certain circumstances.

Effective January 1, 2007, the company adopted the provisions of FASB Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes—an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109” (“FIN 48”). FIN 48 prescribes a recognition threshold and a measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of tax positions taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. For those benefits to be recognized, a tax position must be considered “more-likely-than-not” to be sustained upon examination by taxing authorities. The Company has taken positions in certain taxing jurisdictions for which it is more likely than not that previously unrecognized tax benefits will be recognized. In addition, the Company has elected to recognize interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions in the income tax provision. In accordance with the provisions of FIN 48, effective January 1, 2007, the Company recorded an income tax refund receivable of $5,654,000 and recognized the associated tax benefit as an increase in additional paid-in capital. In connection therewith, the Company recorded interest receivable of $1,122,000 and recognized the associated tax benefit as an increase in retained earnings. At December 31, 2007 and September 30, 2008, the Company has no unrecognized tax benefits.

The Company and its subsidiaries file income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction and various state jurisdictions. The Company is subject to U.S. federal income tax examination for calendar tax years ending 2002 through 2007. The Company is subject to various state income tax examinations for calendar tax years ending 2004 through 2007.

The Company is currently under income tax examination by the Internal Revenue Service for the years ended December 31, 2002, 2003 and 2004. During 2007, the Company completed state income tax examinations in the states of California and Arizona for the years ended December 31, 2002 and 2003 with no significant adjustments.

Note 9 — Tender Offer and Merger

On May 18, 2006, General William Lyon announced the completion of a tender offer to purchase all of the outstanding shares of the common stock of the Company not already owned by him for $109.00 net per share in cash. The shares tendered in the offer, together with the shares already owned by General Lyon, The William Harwell Lyon 1987 Trust and The William Harwell Lyon Separate Property Trust, represented over 90% of the outstanding shares of the Company.

After receiving deliveries of a sufficient number of tendered shares to reach the 90% threshold, General Lyon and the two trusts contributed all the shares of the Company owned by them to WLH Acquisition Corp., a corporation owned by General Lyon and the two trusts. On July 25, 2006, WLH Acquisition Corp. was then merged with and into the Company under the “short-form” merger provisions of Delaware law, with the

 

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WILLIAM LYON HOMES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  (Continued)

(unaudited)

 

Company continuing as the surviving corporation of the merger. At the effective time of the merger, each outstanding share of the Company’s common stock (except for shares owned by WLH Acquisition Corp. and by stockholders who properly exercise their appraisal rights in accordance with Delaware law) was cancelled and converted into the right to receive $109.00 per share in cash, without interest, which is the same consideration that was paid for shares of the Company in the tender offer by General Lyon.

As a consequence of the merger, the Company’s equity now consists solely of 1,000 shares of common stock outstanding held by General Lyon and the two trusts.

See Note 10 for information on certain lawsuits which have been filed relating to General Lyon’s proposal.

Note 10 — Commitments and Contingencies

The Company’s commitments and contingent liabilities include the usual obligations incurred by real estate developers in the normal course of business. In the opinion of management, these matters will not have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Litigation Arising from General Lyon’s Tender Offer

On March 17, 2006, the Company’s principal stockholder commenced a tender offer (the “Tender Offer”) to purchase all outstanding shares of the Company’s common stock not already owned by him. Initially, the price offered in the Tender Offer was $93 per share, but it was subsequently increased to $109 per share.

Two purported class action lawsuits were filed in the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware in and for New Castle County, purportedly on behalf of the public stockholders of the Company, challenging the Tender Offer and challenging related actions of the Company and the directors of the Company. Stephen L. Brown v. William Lyon Homes, et al., Civil Action No. 2015-N was filed on March 20, 2006, and Michael Crady, et al. v. General William Lyon, et al., Civil Action No. 2017-N was filed on March 21, 2006 (collectively, the “Delaware Complaints”). On March 21, 2006, plaintiff in the Brown action also filed a First Amended Complaint. The Delaware Complaints named the Company and the directors of the Company as defendants. These complaints alleged, among other things, that the defendants had breached their fiduciary duties owed to the plaintiffs in connection with the Tender Offer and other related corporate activities. The plaintiffs sought to enjoin the Tender Offer and, among other things, to obtain attorneys’ fees and expenses related to the litigation.

On March 23, 2006, the Company announced that its Board had appointed a special committee of independent directors who were not members of the Company’s management or employed by the Company (the “Special Committee”) to consider the Tender Offer. The members of the Special Committee were Harold H. Greene, Lawrence M. Higby, and Dr. Arthur Laffer. The Company also announced that the Special Committee had retained Morgan Stanley & Co. as its financial advisor and Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP as its legal counsel.

On March 24, 2006, the Delaware Chancery Court consolidated the Delaware Complaints into a single case entitled In re: William Lyon Homes Shareholder Litigation, Civil Action No. 2015-N (the “Consolidated Delaware Action”).

On April 10, 2006, the parties to the Consolidated Delaware Action executed a Memorandum of Understanding (“MOU”), detailing a proposed settlement subject to the Delaware Chancery Court’s approval. Pursuant to the MOU, General Lyon increased his offer of $93 per share to $100 per share, extended the closing

 

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WILLIAM LYON HOMES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  (Continued)

(unaudited)

 

date of the offer to April 21, 2006, and, on April 11, 2006, filed an amended Schedule TO. Plaintiffs in the Consolidated Delaware Action have determined that the settlement is “fair, reasonable, adequate, and in the best interests of plaintiffs and the putative Class.” The Special Committee also determined that the price of $100 per share was fair to the shareholders, and recommended that the Company’s shareholders accept the revised Tender Offer and tender their shares. Thereafter, General Lyon also decided to further extend the closing date of the Tender Offer from April 21, 2006 to April 28, 2006.

On April 23, 2006, Delaware Chancery Court conditionally certified a class in the Consolidated Delaware Action. The parties to the Consolidated Delaware Action agreed to a Stipulation of Settlement, and on August 9, 2006, the Delaware Chancery Court certified a class in the Consolidated Delaware Action, approved the settlement, and dismissed the Consolidated Delaware Action with prejudice as to all defendants and the class. On February 16, 2007, the fee award to Plaintiffs’ counsel was appealed to the Supreme Court of the State of Delaware. On July 18, 2007, a three-judge panel of the Delaware Supreme Court remanded the matter to the Chancery Court for further proceedings regarding the fee award to Plaintiff’s counsel. Under the appealed award, the Company has no expected liability for Plaintiffs’ counsel fees, which are expected to be paid by General Lyon.

A purported class action lawsuit challenging the Tender Offer was also filed in the Superior Court of the State of California, County of Orange. On March 17, 2006, a complaint captioned Alaska Electrical Pension Fund v. William Lyon Homes, Inc., et al., Case No. 06-CC-00047, was filed. On April 5, 2006, plaintiff in the Alaska Electrical action filed an Amended Complaint (the “California Action”). The complaint in the California Action names the Company and the directors of the Company as defendants and alleges, among other things, that the defendants have breached their fiduciary duties to the public stockholders. Plaintiff in the California Action also sought to enjoin the Tender Offer, and, among other things, to obtain attorneys’ fees and expenses related to the litigation.

On April 20, 2006, the California court denied the request of plaintiff in the California Action to enjoin the Tender Offer. Plaintiff filed a motion to certify a class in the California Action which was later taken off calendar, and the Company filed a motion to stay the California Action. On July 5, 2006, the California Court granted the Company’s motion to stay the California Action.

The Company is a defendant in various lawsuits related to its normal business activities. In the opinion of management, disposition of the various lawsuits will have no material effect on the consolidated financial statements of the Company.

See Note 2 for information relating to the Company’s land banking arrangements.

In some jurisdictions in which the Company develops and constructs property, assessment district bonds are issued by municipalities to finance major infrastructure improvements. As a land owner benefited by these improvements, the Company is responsible for the assessments on its land. When properties are sold, the assessments are either prepaid or the buyers assume the responsibility for the related assessments. Assessment district bonds issued after May 21, 1992 are accounted for under the provisions of Statement 91-10, “Accounting for Special Assessment and Tax Increment Financing Entities” issued by the Emerging Issues Task Force of the Financial Accounting Standards Board on May 21, 1992, and recorded as liabilities in the Company’s consolidated balance sheet, if the amounts are fixed and determinable.

As of September 30, 2008, the Company had $18,144,000 of outstanding irrevocable standby letters of credit to guarantee the Company’s financial obligations under certain land banking arrangements, joint venture

 

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WILLIAM LYON HOMES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  (Continued)

(unaudited)

 

agreements and other contractual arrangements in the normal course of business. The beneficiary may draw upon these letters of credit in the event of a contractual default by the Company relating to each respective obligation. These letters of credit have a stated term of 12 months and have varying maturities through 2009, at which time the Company may be required to renew the letters of credit to coincide with the term of the respective arrangement.

The Company also had outstanding performance and surety bonds of $208,332,000 at September 30, 2008 related principally to its obligations for site improvements at various projects. The Company does not believe that draws upon these bonds, if any, will have a material effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

The Company has provided unsecured environmental indemnities to certain lenders, joint venture partners and land sellers. In each case, the Company has performed due diligence on the potential environmental risks, including obtaining an independent environmental review from outside environmental consultants. These indemnities obligate the Company to reimburse the guaranteed parties for damages related to environmental matters. There is no term or damage limitation on these indemnities; however, if an environmental matter arises, the Company could have recourse against other previous owners.

See Note 6 for additional information relating to the Company’s guarantee arrangements.

 

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Item 2.    Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

WILLIAM LYON HOMES

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The following discussion of results of operations and financial condition should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in Item 1, as well as the information presented in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007.

Results of Operations

Overview and Recent Results

Selected financial and operating information for the Company including its wholly-owned projects and joint ventures as of and for the periods presented is as follows:

 

     Three Months Ended September 30,  
     2008     2007  
     Wholly-Owned     Joint
Ventures
    Consolidated
Total
    Wholly-Owned     Joint
Ventures
    Consolidated
Total
 

Selected Financial Information (dollars in thousands)

            

Homes closed

     221       9       230       375       41       416  
                                                

Home sales revenue

   $ 81,707     $ 3,093     $ 84,800     $ 166,634     $ 15,610     $ 182,244  

Cost of sales

     (78,160 )     (2,030 )     (80,190 )     (147,463 )     (12,304 )     (159,767 )
                                                

Gross margin

   $ 3,547     $ 1,063     $ 4,610     $ 19,171     $ 3,306     $ 22,477  
                                                

Gross margin
percentage

     4.3 %     34.4 %     5.4 %     11.5 %     21.2 %     12.3 %
                                                

Number of homes closed

            

California

     109       9       118       234       41       275  

Arizona

     52       —         52       90       —         90  

Nevada

     60       —         60       51       —         51  
                                                

Total

     221       9       230       375       41       416  
                                                

Average sales price

            

California

   $ 497,900     $ 343,700     $ 486,100     $ 550,000     $ 380,700     $ 524,700  

Arizona

     222,400       —         222,400       249,800       —         249,800  

Nevada

     264,600       —         264,600       303,100       —         303,100  
                                                

Total

   $ 369,700     $ 343,700     $ 368,700     $ 444,400     $ 380,700     $ 438,100  
                                                

Number of net new home orders

            

California

     173       14       187       216       31       247  

Arizona

     34       —         34       62       —         62  

Nevada

     43       —         43       28       —         28  
                                                

Total

     250       14       264       306       31       337  
                                                

Average number of sales locations during period

            

California

     21       3       24       36       5       41  

Arizona

     4       —         4       5       —         5  

Nevada

     11       —         11       11       —         11  
                                                

Total

     36       3       39       52       5       57  
                                                

 

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     As of September 30,
     2008    2007
     Wholly-Owned    Joint
Ventures
   Consolidated
Total
   Wholly-Owned    Joint
Ventures
   Consolidated
Total

Backlog of homes sold but not
closed at end of period

                 

California

     342      31      373      464      64      528

Arizona

     59      —        59      138      —        138

Nevada

     48      —        48      51      —        51
                                         

Total

     449      31      480      653      64      717
                                         

Dollar amount of homes sold but not closed at end of period (dollars in thousands)

                 

California

   $ 130,296    $ 10,088    $ 140,384    $ 269,582    $ 24,494    $ 294,076

Arizona

     11,165      —        11,165      32,195      —        32,195

Nevada

     13,536      —        13,536      17,069      —        17,069
                                         

Total

   $ 154,997    $ 10,088    $ 165,085    $ 318,846    $ 24,494    $ 343,340
                                         

Lots controlled at end of period

                 

Owned lots

                 

California

     2,289      786      3,075      4,267      978      5,245

Arizona

     4,310      1,745      6,055      4,587      1,745      6,332

Nevada

     2,900      —        2,900      3,146      —        3,146
                                         

Total

     9,499      2,531      12,030      12,000      2,723      14,723
                                         

Optioned lots(1)

                 

California

           489            1,122

Arizona

           328            2,728

Nevada

           —              —  
                         

Total

           817            3,850
                         

Total lots controlled

                 

California

           3,564            6,367

Arizona

           6,383            9,060

Nevada

           2,900            3,146
                         

Total

           12,847            18,573
                         

 

(1) Optioned lots may be purchased by the Company as wholly-owned projects or may be purchased by newly formed joint ventures.

 

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    Nine Months Ended September 30,  
    2008     2007  
    Wholly-owned     Joint
Ventures
    Combined
Total
    Wholly-owned     Joint
Ventures
    Combined
Total
 

Selected Financial Information

(dollars in thousands)

           

Homes closed

    818       34       852       1,229       156       1,385  
                                               

Home sales revenue

  $ 318,161     $ 12,596     $ 330,757     $ 565,088     $ 66,756     $ 631,844  

Cost of sales

    (303,055 )     (12,221 )     (315,276 )     (487,374 )     (50,270 )     (537,644 )
                                               

Gross margin

  $ 15,106     $ 375     $ 15,481     $ 77,714     $ 16,486     $ 94,200  
                                               

Gross margin

percentage

    4.7 %     3.0 %     4.7 %     13.8 %     24.7 %     14.9 %
                                               

Number of homes closed

           

California

    491       34       525       738       156       894  

Arizona

    171       —         171       314       —         314  

Nevada

    156       —         156       177       —         177  
                                               

Total

    818       34       852       1,229       156       1,385  
                                               

Average sales price

           

California

  $ 482,000     $ 370,500     $ 474,800     $ 564,900     $ 427,900     $ 541,000  

Arizona

    232,300       —         232,300       281,300       —         281,300  

Nevada

    267,900       —         267,900       338,100       —         338,100  
                                               

Total

  $ 388,900     $ 370,500     $ 388,200     $ 459,800     $ 427,900     $ 456,200  
                                               

Number of net new home orders

           

California

    658       55       713       899       168       1,067  

Arizona

    163       —         163       261       —         261  

Nevada

    177       —         177       168       —         168  
                                               

Total

    998       55       1,053       1,328       168       1,496  
                                               

Average number of sales locations during period

           

California

    28       3       31       31       6       37  

Arizona

    4       —         4       5       —         5  

Nevada

    11       —         11       10       —         10  
                                               

Total

    43       3       46       46       6       52  
                                               

On a consolidated basis, the number of net new home orders for the three months ended September 30, 2008 decreased 21.7% to 264 homes from 337 homes for the three months ended September 30, 2007. The number of homes closed on a consolidated basis for the three months ended September 30, 2008, decreased 44.7% to 230 homes from 416 homes for the three months ended September 30, 2007. On a consolidated basis, the backlog of homes sold but not closed as of September 30, 2008 was 480, down 33.1% from 717 homes a year earlier, and up 7.6% from 446 homes at June 30, 2008.

Homes in backlog are generally closed within three to six months. The dollar amount of backlog of homes sold but not closed on a consolidated basis as of September 30, 2008 was $165.1 million, down 51.9% from $343.3 million as of September 30, 2007 and up 2.9% from $160.4 million as of June 30, 2008. The cancellation rate of buyers who contracted to buy a home but did not close escrow at the Company’s projects was approximately 33% during the three months ended September 30, 2008 compared to 42% during the three months ended September 30, 2007. The inventory of completed and unsold homes was 30 homes as of September 30, 2008, down from 32 homes at June 30, 2008.

The average number of sales locations during the quarter ended September 30, 2008 was 39, down 31.6% from 57 in the comparable period a year ago. The Company’s number of new home orders per average sales location increased to 6.8 for the quarter ended September 30, 2008 as compared to 5.9 for the quarter ended September 30, 2007.

 

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Comparison of Three Months Ended September 30, 2008 to September 30, 2007

Consolidated operating revenue for the three months ended September 30, 2008 was $102.2 million, a decrease of $80.0 million, or 43.9% from consolidated operating revenue of $182.2 million for the three months ended September 30, 2007. Revenue from sales of wholly-owned homes decreased $84.9 million, or 51.0%, to $81.7 million in the 2008 period from $166.6 million in the 2007 period. This decrease was comprised of (i) a decrease of $68.4 million due to a decrease in the number of wholly-owned homes closed to 221 in 2008 from 375 in 2007 and (ii) a decrease of $16.5 million due to a decrease in the average sales price of wholly-owned homes closed to $369,700 in the 2008 period from $444,400 in the 2007 period. Consolidated operating revenue includes revenue from sales of joint ventures due to the adoption of Interpretation No. 46. Revenue from sales of joint venture homes decreased $12.5 million, or 80.1%, to $3.1 million in the 2008 period from $15.6 million in the 2007 period. This decrease was comprised of (i) a decrease of $0.3 million due to a decrease in the average sales price of joint venture homes closed to $343,700 in the 2008 period from $380,700 in the 2007 period and (ii) a decrease of $12.2 million due to a decrease in the number of joint venture homes closed to 9 in the 2008 period from 41 in the 2007 period. Revenue from sales of lots, land and other was $7.9 million in the 2008 period with no comparable amount in the 2007 period, due to the bulk sale of land in California in 2008.

Total operating loss decreased to $33.4 million in the 2008 period compared to operating loss of $62.8 million in the 2007 period. The excess of revenue from sales of homes over the related cost of sales (gross margin) decreased by $17.9 million to $4.6 million in the 2008 period from $22.5 million in the 2007 period primarily due to (i) a decrease in the number of homes closed to 230 in the 2008 period from 416 in the 2007 period, (ii) a decrease the average sales price of homes closed to $368,700 in the 2008 period from $438,100 in the 2007 period and (iii) a decrease in gross margin percentages to 5.4% in the 2008 period from 12.3% in the 2007 period. The decrease in period-over-period gross margin percentages primarily reflects the close out of projects with higher average gross margin percentages in 2007, a shift in product mix and the decrease in average sales prices in certain of the Company’s markets due to depressed market conditions. The excess of revenue from sales of lots, land and other over the related cost of sales (gross margin) decreased to $(0.7) million in the 2008 period from $(0.9) million in the 2007 period primarily due to the bulk sale of land in California in 2008 with no comparable sale in the 2007 period. Costs of approximately $0.9 million were incurred in the 2007 period related to the abandonment and write-off of project pre-acquisition costs for certain of the Company’s potential projects.

Operating costs for the three months ended September 30, 2008 include a non-cash charge of $21.9 million to record impairment loss on real estate assets held by the Company at certain of its homebuilding projects compared to $59.0 million for the three months ended September 30, 2007. The impairment was primarily attributable to slower than anticipated home sales and lower than anticipated net revenue due to continued deterioration of market conditions in the housing industry. As a result, the future undiscounted cash flows estimated to be generated were determined to be less than the carrying amount of the assets. Accordingly, the related real estate assets were written-down to their estimated fair value. Management determines the estimated fair value by present valuing the estimated future cash flows, including interest cost, at discount rates which are commensurate with the risk of the project under evaluation, generally ranging from 8% to 14%. The non-cash charge is reflected in impairment loss on real estate assets in the consolidated statements of operations.

In 2008, the Company entered into construction management agreements with various affiliates of one of its joint venture equity partners to build and market homes on behalf of the affiliates in 5 separate communities. For such services, the Company will receive fees (generally 5 percent of the sales price, as defined) and may, under certain circumstances, receive additional compensation if certain financial thresholds are achieved. Construction services revenue was $9.4 million in the 2008 period and construction services expenses were $8.1 million. See Note 3 of “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further discussion.

Sales and marketing expense decreased $6.2 million to $8.7 million in the 2008 period from $14.9 million in the 2007 period primarily due to (i) a decrease of $3.4 million in advertising costs to $2.7 million in the 2008 period from $6.1 million in the 2007 period, (ii) a decrease of $1.0 million in outside broker expenses to $1.7

 

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million in the 2008 period from $2.7 million in the 2007 period and (iii) a decrease of $1.2 million in sales office and model home operation costs to $1.7 million in the 2008 period from $2.9 million in the 2007 period.

General and administrative expenses decreased by $3.3 million to $6.4 million in the 2008 period from $9.7 million in the 2007 period, primarily as a result of (i) a decrease of $2.5 million in salaries and benefits expense to $4.0 million in the 2008 period from $6.5 million in the 2007 period primarily as a result of a reduction in the number of the Company’s employees and (ii) other cost reduction measures implemented by management due to softening market conditions. Other operating costs consist of operating losses realized by golf course operations at certain of the Company’s projects which decreased to $0.2 million in the 2008 period compared to $0.4 million in the 2007 period. Equity in (loss) income of unconsolidated joint ventures decreased to $(0.8) million in the 2008 period from $0.3 million in the 2007 period. Minority equity in (income) loss of consolidated entities decreased to $(0.6) million in the 2008 period from $(0.8) million in the 2007 period, primarily due to a decrease in the number of joint venture homes closed to 9 in the 2008 period from 41 in the 2007 period, offset by an increase in gross margin percentage to 34.4% in the 2008 period from 21.2% in the 2007 period.

Interest incurred decreased to $16.6 million in the 2008 period from $20.0 million in the 2007 period primarily due to a decrease in average debt balances and a decrease in interest rates. Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized was $7.1 million in the 2008 period, with no comparable amount in the 2007 period due to a decrease in real estate assets which qualify for interest capitalization in the 2008 period.

The benefit (provision) for income taxes during the three months ended September 30, 2007 was a benefit of $1.3 million based on operating losses during the period with no comparable amount in the 2008 period.

As a result of the factors outlined above, net loss is $41.1 million in the 2008 period compared to net loss of $60.0 million in the 2007 period.

Comparison of Nine Months Ended September 30, 2008 to September 30, 2007

Consolidated operating revenue for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 was $379.7 million, a decrease of $279.7 million, or 42.4%, from consolidated operating revenue of $659.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2007. Revenue from sales of wholly-owned homes decreased $246.9 million, or 43.7%, to $318.2 million in the 2008 period from $565.1 million in the 2007 period. This decrease was comprised of (i) a decrease of $189.0 million due to a decrease in the number of wholly-owned homes closed to 818 in 2008 from 1,229 in 2007 and (ii) a decrease of $57.9 million due to a decrease in the average sales price of wholly-owned homes closed to $388,900 in the 2008 period from $459,800 in the 2007 period. Consolidated operating revenue includes revenue from sales of joint ventures due to the adoption of Interpretation No. 46. Revenue from sales of joint venture homes decreased $54.2 million, or 81.1%, to $12.6 million in the 2008 period from $66.8 million in the 2007 period. This decrease was comprised of (i) a decrease of $2.0 million due to a decrease in the average sales price of joint venture homes closed to $370,500 in the 2008 period from $427,900 in the 2007 period and (ii) a decrease of $52.2 million due to a decrease in the number of joint venture homes closed to 34 in 2008 from 156 in 2007. Revenue from sales of lots, land and other increased to $39.5 million in the 2008 period from $27.5 million in the 2007 period, due to the timing of bulk sales of land in California in 2008, compared to the sale of a golf course in one of the Company’s markets and other bulk sales of land in Arizona in 2007.

Total operating loss decreased to $105.8 million in the 2008 period compared to operating loss of $137.3 million in the 2007 period. The excess of revenue from sales of homes over the related costs of sales (gross margin) decreased by $78.7 million to $15.5 million in the 2008 period from $94.2 million in the 2007 period primarily due to (i) a decrease in the number of homes closed to 852 in the 2008 period from 1,385 in the 2007 period, (ii) a decrease in the average sales price to $388,200 in the 2008 period compared to $456,200 in the 2007 period and (iii) a decrease in the gross margin percentages to 4.7% in the 2008 period from 14.9% in the 2007 period. The decrease in period-over-period gross margin percentage primarily reflects the close out of projects with higher average gross margin percentages in 2007, a shift in product mix and the decrease in average

 

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sales prices in certain of the Company’s markets due to depressed market conditions. The excess of revenue from sales of lots, land and other over the related cost of sales (gross margin) decreased to $(1.4) million in the 2008 period from $1.9 million in the 2007 period primarily due to the timing of bulk sales of land in California in 2008, compared to the sale of a golf course in one of the Company’s markets and other bulk sales of land in Arizona in 2007. In addition, $2.8 million of costs were incurred related to the abandonment and write-off of project pre-acquisition costs and land option deposits in the 2007 period.

Operating costs for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 include a non-cash charge of $68.0 million to record impairment loss on real estate assets held by the Company at certain of its homebuilding projects compared to $146.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2007. The impairment was primarily attributable to slower than anticipated home sales and lower than anticipated net revenue due to continued deterioration of market conditions in the housing industry. As a result, the future undiscounted cash flows estimated to be generated were determined to be less than the carrying amount of the assets. Accordingly, the related real estate assets were written-down to their estimated fair value. Management determines the estimated fair value by present valuing the estimated future cash flows, including interest cost, at discount rates which are commensurate with the risk of the project under evaluation, generally ranging from 8% to 14%. The non-cash charge is reflected in impairment loss on real estate assets in the consolidated statements of operations.

In 2008, the Company entered into construction management agreements with various affiliates of one of its joint venture equity partners to build and market homes on behalf of the affiliates in 5 separate communities. For such services, the Company will receive fees (generally 5 percent of the sales price, as defined) and may, under certain circumstances, receive additional compensation if certain financial thresholds are achieved. Construction services revenue was $9.4 million in the 2008 period and construction services expenses were $8.1 million. See Note 3 of “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further discussion.

Sales and marketing expense decreased $14.8 million to $30.8 million in the 2008 period from $45.6 million in the 2007 period primarily due to (i) a decrease of $6.1 million in advertising costs to $10.0 million in the 2008 period from $16.1 million in the 2007 period, (ii) a decrease of $4.9 million in outside broker expenses to $6.4 million in the 2008 period from $11.3 million in the 2007 period, (iii) a decrease in seller closing costs of $1.6 million to $1.0 million in the 2008 period from $2.6 million in the 2007 period and (iv) a decrease in salesperson commissions of $0.9 million to $5.5 million in the 2008 period from $6.4 million in the 2007 period due to the reduction in units closed and revenue from home sales in 2008 as compared to 2007.

General and administrative expenses decreased by $10.5 million to $19.9 million in the 2008 period from $30.4 million in the 2007 period, primarily as a result of (i) a decrease of $8.7 million in salaries and benefits expense to $12.7 million in the 2008 period from $21.4 million in the 2007 period due to a reduction in the Company’s number of employees, (ii) a decrease of $1.1 million in bonus expense to $2.3 million in the 2008 period from $3.4 million in the 2007 period and (iii) other cost reduction measures implemented by management due to the weak housing market. Other operating costs consist of (i) operating losses realized by golf course operations at certain of the Company’s divisions which increased to $0.9 million in the 2008 period compared to $0.5 million in the 2007 period and (ii) nonrecurring items of approximately $1.1 million incurred by the Company during the 2008 period. Equity in (loss) income of unconsolidated joint ventures increased to loss of $(1.6) million in the 2008 period from a loss of $(0.3) million in the 2007 period. Minority equity in (income) loss of consolidated entities decreased to a loss of $1.1 million in the 2008 period from income of $(10.0) million in the 2007 period primarily due to a decrease in the number of joint venture homes closed to 34 in the 2008 period from 156 in the 2007 period.

Total interest incurred decreased to $51.8 million in the 2008 period from $56.2 million in the 2007 period, primarily as a result of a decrease in the average principal balance of debt outstanding, offset by slightly higher average interest rates. Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized was $16.4 million in the 2008 period, with no comparable amount in the 2007 period due to a decrease in real estate assets which qualify for interest capitalization in the 2008 period.

 

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The benefit (provision) for income taxes was a benefit of $41.6 million in the 2008 period compared to a provision of $30.2 million in the 2007 period. Effective January 1, 2008, the Company revoked the “S” corporation election and changed its tax status to a “C” corporation. As a result, the Company recorded a deferred tax asset and related tax benefit of $41.6 million in the 2008 period. Effective January 1, 2007 the Company elected to change its tax status to an “S” Corporation from a “C” Corporation, which required the Company to reduce deferred tax assets and incur an income tax provision of $31.9 million in the 2007 period. See Note 8 of “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further discussion.

As a result of the factors outlined above, net loss decreased to $80.8 million in the 2008 period compared to net loss of $163.5 million in the 2007 period.

Financial Condition and Liquidity

The Company provides for its ongoing cash requirements principally from internally generated funds from the sales of real estate, outside borrowings and by forming new joint ventures with venture partners that provide a substantial portion of the capital required for certain projects. The Company currently has outstanding 7 5/8% Senior Notes due 2012, 10 3/4% Senior Notes due 2013 and 7 1/2% Senior Notes due 2014 and maintains secured revolving credit facilities (“Revolving Credit Facilities”). The Company has financed, and may in the future finance, certain projects and land acquisitions with construction loans secured by real estate inventories, seller provided financing and land banking transactions. The Company believes that its current borrowing capacity and increases reasonably available to it, cash on hand and anticipated net cash flows from operations are and will be sufficient to meet its current and reasonably anticipated liquidity needs on both a near-term and long-term basis (and in any event for the next twelve months) for funds to build homes, run its day-to-day operations, acquire land and capital assets and fund its mortgage operations. There is no assurance, however, that future cash flows will be sufficient to meet the Company’s future capital needs. The amount and types of indebtedness that the Company may incur may be limited by the terms of the indentures and credit or other agreements governing the Company’s senior note obligations, revolving credit facilities and other indebtedness.

In 2008, the homebuilding industry has experienced continued decreased demand for housing, which has resulted in a decrease in new home orders, home closings, average sales prices and gross margins for the Company compared to the 2007 period. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008, the Company incurred impairment losses on real estate assets in the amount of $21.9 million and $68.0 million, respectively. The impairments were primarily attributable to slower than anticipated homes sales and lower than anticipated net revenue due to the continued deterioration of market conditions in the homebuilding industry. The Company was required to write-down the book value of certain real estate assets in accordance with Statement No. 144, as defined in Note 1 of “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements”.

During 2007 and 2008, in response to the slow-down in the homebuilding industry, the Company entered into certain land sales transactions to improve its liquidity and to reduce its overall debt. On December 26, 2007 and January 7, 2008, the Company entered into ten separate agreements with various affiliates of one of its equity partners (the “Equity Partner Agreements”). Pursuant to the Equity Partner Agreements, the Company agreed to sell to the equity partner affiliates 604 residential lots and 5 model homes in 10 communities in Orange County, San Diego County and Ventura County, California for an aggregate purchase price of $90.6 million in cash. The purchase and sale of 404 of the residential lots and the 5 model homes closed on December 27, 2007 (for an aggregate consideration of approximately $65.9 million) and the remainder of the residential lots closed on January 9, 2008. Prior to the sale, the collective net book value of these lots (as reflected on the Company’s financial statements) was approximately $210.7 million, resulting in a total loss on the sales transactions of $120.1 million. The loss of $40.3 million related to the portion of the land sales which closed in January 2008 was reflected in the Consolidated Statement of Operations as Impairment Losses on Real Estate Assets for the year ended December 31, 2007. The Company has entered into agreements with the various affiliates of the equity partner to build and market homes in 5 of the 10 communities on behalf of the affiliates. For such services, the Company receives fees (generally five percent of the sale price as defined) and may, under certain circumstances, receive additional

 

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compensation if certain financial thresholds are achieved. On April 4, 2008, certain of the equity partner affiliates acquired an additional 9 model homes in 2 of the 10 communities for an aggregate purchase price of $7.1 million.

On December 27, 2007, the Company sold certain land in San Diego County, California for $12.0 million in cash to a limited liability corporation owned indirectly by Frank T. Suryan, Jr. as Trustee of the Suryan Family Trust. Mr. Suryan is Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Lyon Capital Ventures, a company wholly owned by Frank T. Suryan, Jr., General William Lyon, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, and a trust whose sole beneficiary is William H. Lyon, Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer of the Company. The Company has received a report from a third-party valuation and financial advisory services firm as to the reasonableness of the sales price in the transaction. Further, the transaction was unanimously approved by all independent members of the Board of Directors. Prior to the sale, the net book value of this land (as reflected on the Company’s financial statements) was approximately $18.7 million, resulting in a loss on the transaction of $6.7 million, which was reflected in the Consolidated Statement of Operations for the year ended December 31, 2007.

In 2008, the Company has temporarily suspended all development, sales and marketing activities at thirteen of its projects which are in the early stages of development. Management of the Company has concluded that this strategy is necessary under the prevailing market conditions and would allow the Company to market the properties at some future time when market conditions may have improved.

Upon consummation of the land sales transactions described above, the Company would not have been in compliance with the tangible net worth covenants in certain of the Revolving Credit Facilities. The Company has reached agreement with each of the lenders to modify the terms of the respective Revolving Credit Facilities so that upon consummation of the land sales transactions described above, the Company would be in compliance with the modified terms.

Under the modified Revolving Credit Facilities, the aggregate loan commitment is $250.0 million at September 30, 2008 (including two facilities of $50.0 million each, one of $40.0 million, one of $35.0 million, one of $30.0 million, one of $25.0 million and one of $20.0 million), with maturities at various dates as follows:

 

Loan
Commitment

Amount

(in millions)

  

Balance

Outstanding at

September 30,

2008

(in millions)

  

Initial

Maturity Date(1)

$ 50.0    $ 26.2    December 2008
  35.0      16.6    April 2009
  25.0      9.1    May 2009
  40.0      32.9    June 2009
  50.0      16.8    July 2009
  30.0      27.2    September 2009
  20.0      5.2    September 2009(2)
             
$ 250.0    $ 134.0   
             

 

(1) After the initial maturity date, additional advances may be obtained to complete previously approved projects subject to all other requirements for advances under the borrowing base. Repayments of borrowed amounts are required at the time a sold house closes escrow or at the time a house must be removed from the borrowing base. The final maturity date would generally be twelve to twenty-four months after the initial maturity date.

 

(2) The initial maturity date of this facility was September 2008. The facility was not extended by the Company; therefore the final maturity date is September 2009. In addition, in October 2008, the loan commitment amount was reduced from $20.0 million to $6.0 million.

 

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Under the modified revolving credit facilities, the Company is required to comply with a number of covenants, the most restrictive of which require the Company to maintain:

 

   

A tangible net worth, as defined, of $175.0 million;

 

   

A ratio of total liabilities to tangible net worth, each as defined, of less than 5.00 to 1; and

 

   

Minimum liquidity, as defined, of at least $20.0 million.

As of and for the period ending September 30, 2008, the Company is in compliance with these covenants.

The ability of the Company to meet its obligations on its indebtedness will depend to a large degree on its future performance which in turn will be subject, in part, to factors beyond its control, such as prevailing economic conditions either nationally or in regions in which the Company operates, the outbreak of war or other hostilities involving the United States, mortgage and other interest rates, changes in prices of homebuilding materials, weather, the occurrence of events such as landslides, soil subsidence and earthquakes that are uninsurable, not economically insurable or not subject to effective indemnification agreements, availability of labor and homebuilding materials, changes in governmental laws and regulations, volatility in the banking industry and credit markets, the timing of receipt of regulatory approvals and the opening of projects, and the availability and cost of land for future development. The Company cannot be certain that its cash flow will be sufficient to allow it to pay principal and interest on its debt, support its operations and meet its other obligations. If the Company is not able to meet those obligations, it may be required to refinance all or part of its existing debt, sell assets or borrow more money. The Company may not be able to do so on terms acceptable to it, if at all. In addition, the terms of existing or future indentures and credit or other agreements governing the Company’s senior note obligations, revolving credit facilities and other indebtedness may restrict the Company from pursuing any of these alternatives.

Effective January 1, 2007, the Company made an election in accordance with federal and state regulations to be taxed as an “S” corporation rather than a “C” corporation. Under this election, the Company’s taxable income flowed through to and was reported on the personal tax returns of its shareholders. The shareholders were responsible for paying the appropriate taxes based on this election. The Company did not pay any federal taxes under this election and was only required to pay certain state taxes based on a rate of approximately 1.5% of taxable income. As a result of this election, the Company’s provision for income taxes for the nine months ended September 30, 2007 included a reduction of deferred tax assets of $31.9 million due to the elimination of any future tax benefit by the Company from such assets. In addition, unused recognized built in losses in the amount of $19.4 million were no longer available to the Company.

Effective January 1, 2008, the Company and its shareholders made a revocation of the “S” corporation election. As a result of this revocation, the Company will be taxed as a “C” corporation. The shareholders will not be able to elect “S” corporation status for at least five years. The revocation of the “S” corporation election will allow taxable losses generated in 2008 to be carried back to the 2006 “C” corporation year. As a result of the change in tax status, the Company recorded a deferred tax asset and related income tax benefit of $41.6 million as of January 1, 2008. The recorded deferred tax asset reflects the anticipated tax refund for the carry back of the estimated 2008 tax loss to 2006. The Company expects to receive the refund in early 2009. In addition, as of January 1, 2008, the Company has unused built-in losses of $19.4 million which are available to offset future income and expire between 2010 and 2011. The utilization of these losses is limited to $3.9 million of taxable income per year; however, any unused losses in any year may be carried forward for utilization in future years through 2010 and 2011. The maximum cumulative unused built-in loss that may be carried forward through 2010 and 2011 is $11.5 million and $7.9 million, respectively. The Company’s ability to utilize the foregoing tax benefits will depend upon the amount of its future taxable income and may be limited under certain circumstances.

 

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7 5/8% Senior Notes

On November 22, 2004, the Company’s 100% owned subsidiary, William Lyon Homes, Inc., a California corporation, (“California Lyon”) closed its offering of $150.0 million principal amount of 7 5/8% Senior Notes due 2012 (the “7 5/8% Senior Notes”). The notes were sold pursuant to Rule 144A. The notes were issued at par resulting in net proceeds to the Company of approximately $148.5 million. California Lyon agreed to file a registration statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission relating to an offer to exchange the notes for publicly tradeable notes having substantially identical terms. On January 12, 2005, the Securities and Exchange Commission declared the registration statement effective and California Lyon commenced an offer to exchange any and all of its outstanding $150.0 million aggregate principal amount of 7 5/8% Senior Notes due 2012, which are not registered under the Securities Act of 1933, for a like amount of its new 7 5/8% Senior Notes due 2012, which are registered under the Securities Act of 1933, upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the prospectus dated January 12, 2005. The exchange offer was completed for $146.5 million principal amount of the 7 5/8% Senior Notes on February 18, 2005. The remaining $3.5 million principal amount of the old notes was exchanged for new notes in October 2008. The terms of the new notes are identical in all material respects to those of the old notes, except for certain transfer restrictions, registration rights and liquidated damages provisions relating to the old notes. Interest on the 7 5/8% Senior Notes is payable semi-annually on December 15 and June 15 of each year. Based on the principal amount of the 7 5/8% Senior Notes outstanding at September 30, 2008, the Company’s semi-annual interest payments are $5.7 million.

Except as set forth in the Indenture governing the 7 5/8% Senior Notes, the 7 5/8% Senior Notes are not redeemable prior to December 15, 2008. Thereafter, the 7 5/8% Senior Notes will be redeemable at the option of California Lyon, in whole or in part, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount plus a premium declining ratably to par, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any.

In October 2008, the Company purchased, in privately negotiated transactions, $16.2 million principal amount of its outstanding 7 5/8% Senior Notes at a cost of $3.6 million, plus accrued interest. The net gain resulting from the purchase, after giving effect to amortization of related deferred loan costs was $12.5 million. Upon settlement of the transaction, the Company authorized these notes to be cancelled, leaving $133.8 million in principal outstanding.

10 3/4% Senior Notes

California Lyon filed a Registration Statement on Form S-3 with the Securities and Exchange Commission for the sale of $250.0 million of Senior Notes due 2013 (the “10 3/4% Senior Notes”) which became effective on March 12, 2003. The offering closed on March 17, 2003 and was fully subscribed and issued. The notes were issued at a price of 98.493% to the public, resulting in net proceeds to the Company of approximately $246.2 million. The purchase price reflected a discount to yield 11% under the effective interest method and the notes have been reflected net of the unamortized discount in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet. Interest on the 10 3/4% Senior Notes is payable on April 1 and October 1 of each year. Based on the principal amount of the 10 3/4% Senior Notes outstanding at September 30, 2008, the Company’s semi-annual interest payments are $13.4 million.

Except as set forth in the Indenture governing the 10 3/4% Senior Notes, the 10 3/4% Senior Notes were not redeemable prior to April 1, 2008. Thereafter, the 10 3/4% Senior Notes are redeemable at the option of California Lyon, in whole or in part, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount plus a premium declining ratably to par, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any.

In October 2008, the Company purchased, in privately negotiated transactions, $30.0 million principal amount of its outstanding 10 3/4% Senior Notes at a cost of $7.5 million, plus accrued interest. The net gain resulting from the purchase, after giving effect to amortization of related deferred loan costs and unamortized discount costs was $21.8 million. Upon settlement of the transaction, the Company authorized these notes to be cancelled, leaving $220.0 million in principal outstanding.

 

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7 1/2% Senior Notes

On February 6, 2004, California Lyon closed its offering of $150.0 million principal amount of 7 1/2% Senior Notes due 2014 (the “7 1/2% Senior Notes”). The notes were sold pursuant to Rule 144A and outside the United States to non-U.S. persons in reliance on Regulation S. The notes were issued at par, resulting in net proceeds to the Company of approximately $147.6 million. California Lyon agreed to file a registration statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission relating to an offer to exchange the notes for publicly tradeable notes having substantially identical terms. On July 16, 2004, the Securities and Exchange Commission declared the registration statement effective and California Lyon commenced an offer to exchange any and all of its outstanding $150.0 million aggregate principal amount of 7 1/2% Senior Notes due 2014, which are not registered under the Securities Act of 1933, for a like amount of its new 7 1/2% Senior Notes due 2014, which are registered under the Securities act of 1933, upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the prospectus dated July 16, 2004. The exchange offer was completed for the full principal amount of the 7 1/2% Senior Notes on August 17, 2004. The terms of the new notes are identical in all material respects to those of the old notes, except for certain transfer restrictions, registration rights and liquidated damages provisions relating to the old notes. Interest on the 7 1/2% Senior Notes is payable on February 15 and August 15 of each year. Based on the principal amount of 7 1/2% Senior Notes outstanding at September 30, 2008, the Company’s semi-annual interest payments are $5.6 million.

Except as set forth in the Indenture governing the 7 1/2% Senior Notes, the 7 1/2% Senior Notes are not redeemable prior to February 15, 2009. Thereafter, the 7 1/2% Senior Notes will be redeemable at the option of California Lyon, in whole or in part, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount plus a premium declining ratably to par, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any.

In October 2008, the Company purchased, in privately negotiated transactions, $25.7 million principal amount of its outstanding 7 1/2% Senior Notes at a cost of $5.7 million, plus accrued interest. The net gain resulting from the purchase, after giving effect to amortization of related deferred loan costs was $19.7 million. Upon settlement of the transaction, the Company authorized these notes to be cancelled, leaving $124.3 million in principal outstanding.

*  *  *  *  *

The 7 5/8% Senior Notes, the 10 3/4% Senior Notes and the 7 1/2% Senior Notes (collectively, the “Senior Notes”) are senior unsecured obligations of California Lyon and are unconditionally guaranteed on a senior unsecured basis by William Lyon Homes, a Delaware corporation (“Delaware Lyon”), which is the parent company of California Lyon, and all of Delaware Lyon’s existing and certain of its future restricted subsidiaries. The Senior Notes and the guarantees rank senior to all of the Company’s and the guarantors’ debt that is expressly subordinated to the Senior Notes and the guarantees, but are effectively subordinated to all of the Company’s and the guarantors’ senior secured indebtedness to the extent of the value of the assets securing that indebtedness.

Upon a change of control as described in the respective Indentures governing the Senior Notes (the “Senior Notes Indentures”), California Lyon will be required to offer to purchase the Senior Notes at a purchase price equal to 101% of the principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any.

If the Company’s consolidated tangible net worth falls below $75.0 million for any two consecutive fiscal quarters, California Lyon will be required to make an offer to purchase up to 10% of each class of Senior Notes originally issued at a purchase price equal to 100% of the principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any.

California Lyon is 100% owned by Delaware Lyon. Each subsidiary guarantor is 100% owned by California Lyon or Delaware Lyon. All guarantees of the Senior Notes are full and unconditional and all guarantees are joint and several. There are no significant restrictions on the ability of Delaware Lyon or any guarantor to obtain funds from subsidiaries by dividend or loan.

 

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The Senior Notes Indentures contain covenants that limit the ability of Delaware Lyon and its restricted subsidiaries to, among other things: (i) incur additional indebtedness; (ii) pay dividends or make other distributions or repurchase its stock; (iii) make investments; (iv) sell assets; (v) incur liens; (vi) enter into agreements restricting the ability of Delaware Lyon’s restricted subsidiaries (other than California Lyon) to pay dividends; (vii) enter into transactions with affiliates; and (viii) consolidate, merge or sell all or substantially all of Delaware Lyon’s and California Lyon’s assets. These covenants are subject to a number of important exceptions and qualifications as described in the Senior Notes Indentures.

The foregoing summary is not a complete description of the Senior Notes and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the Senior Notes Indentures.

The net proceeds of the offerings were used to repay amounts outstanding under revolving credit facilities and other indebtedness. The remaining proceeds were used to pay fees and commissions related to the offering and for other general corporate purposes.

At September 30, 2008, the Company had approximately $186.1 million of secured indebtedness, (excluding approximately $83.4 million of secured indebtedness of consolidated entities) and approximately $9.7 million of additional secured indebtedness available to be borrowed under the Company’s credit facilities, as limited by the Company’s borrowing base formulas.

Revolving Credit Facilities

As of September 30, 2008, the Company has seven revolving credit facilities which have an aggregate maximum loan commitment of $250.0 million, (including two facilities of $50.0 million each, one of $40.0 million, one of $35.0 million, one of $30.0 million, one of $25.0 million and one of $20.0 million), with maturities at various dates as follows:

 

Loan
Commitment

Amount

(in millions)

  

Balance

Outstanding at

September 30,

2008

(in millions)

  

Initial

Maturity Date(1)

$ 50.0    $ 26.2    December 2008
  35.0      16.6    April 2009
  25.0      9.1    May 2009
  40.0      32.9    June 2009
  50.0      16.8    July 2009
  30.0      27.2    September 2009
  20.0      5.2    September 2009(2)
             
$ 250.0    $ 134.0   
             

 

(1) After the initial maturity date, additional advances may be obtained to complete previously approved projects subject to all other requirements for advances under the borrowing base. Repayments of borrowed amounts are required at the time a sold house closes escrow or at the time a house must be removed from the borrowing base. The final maturity date would generally be twelve to twenty-four months after the initial maturity date.

 

(2) The initial maturity date of this facility was September 2008. The facility was not extended by the Company; therefore the final maturity date is September 2009. In addition, in October 2008, the loan commitment amount was reduced from $20.0 million to $6.0 million.

The revolving credit facilities have similar characteristics. The Company may borrow amounts, subject to applicable borrowing base and concentration limitations, as defined. During the last year of the term of each facility, the commitment amount will decrease ratably until the commitment under each facility is reduced to zero by the final maturity date, as defined in each respective agreement.

 

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Availability under each credit facility is subject not only to the maximum amount committed under the respective facility, but also to both various borrowing base and concentration limitations. The borrowing base limits lender advances to certain agreed percentages of asset value. The allowed percentage generally increases as the asset progresses from land under development to residence subject to contract of sale. Advances for each type of collateral become due in whole or in part, subject to possible re-borrowing, and/or the collateral becomes excluded from the borrowing base, after a specified period or earlier upon sale. Concentration limitations further restrict availability under the credit facilities. The effect of these borrowing base and concentration limitations essentially is to mandate minimum levels of the Company’s investment in a project, with higher percentages of investment required at earlier phases of a project, and with greater absolute dollar amounts of investment required as a project progresses. Each revolving credit facility is secured by deeds of trust on the real property and improvements thereon owned by the Company in the subdivision project(s) approved by the respective lender, as well as pledges of all net sale proceeds, related contracts and other ancillary property. Also, each credit facility includes financial covenants, which may limit the amount that may be borrowed thereunder. Outstanding advances bear interest at various rates, which approximate the prime rate. As of September 30, 2008, $134.0 million was outstanding under these credit facilities, with a weighted-average interest rate of 5.985%, and the undrawn availability was $9.7 million as limited by the borrowing base formulas. Interest on the revolving credit facilities is calculated on the average, outstanding daily balance and is paid following the end of each month. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008, the Company borrowed $97.8 million and $257.4 million, respectively, and repaid $59.7 million and $263.2 million, respectively, under these facilities. The maximum amount outstanding was $134.0 million and the weighted average borrowings were $116.6 million during the three months ended September 30, 2008. Interest incurred on the revolving credit facilities for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008 was $1.4 million and $5.6 million, respectively. The Company routinely makes borrowings under its revolving credit facilities in the ordinary course of business within the maximum aggregate loan commitment amounts to fund its operations, including its land acquisition and home building activities, and repays such borrowings, as required by the credit facilities, with the net sales proceeds of sales of the real property, including homes, which secure the applicable credit facility.

Under the modified revolving credit facilities as described above, the Company is required to comply with a number of covenants, the most restrictive of which require the Company to maintain:

 

   

A tangible net worth, as defined, of $175.0 million;

 

   

A ratio of total liabilities to tangible net worth, each as defined, of less than 5.00 to 1; and

 

   

Minimum liquidity, as defined, of at least $20.0 million.

As of and for the period ending September 30, 2008, the Company is in compliance with these covenants.

Construction Notes Payable

At September 30, 2008, the Company had construction notes payable on certain consolidated entities amounting to $124.7 million. The construction notes have various maturity dates through 2017 and bear interest at rates ranging from prime plus 0.25% to prime plus 1.50% at September 30, 2008. Interest is calculated on the average daily balance and is paid following the end of each month.

Revolving Mortgage Warehouse Credit Facilities

The Company, through its mortgage subsidiary and one of its unconsolidated joint ventures, has entered into two revolving mortgage warehouse credit facilities with banks to fund its mortgage origination operations. The original credit facility, which matures in October 2008, provides for revolving loans of up to $22.5 million outstanding, $15.0 million of which is committed (lender obligated to lend if stated conditions are satisfied) and $7.5 million is not committed (lender advances are optional even if stated conditions are otherwise satisfied). The

 

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Company’s mortgage subsidiary and one of its unconsolidated joint ventures entered into an additional $20.0 million credit facility which matures in November 2008. The Company expects the maturities to be extended by the lender at each maturity date. Mortgage loans are generally held for a short period of time and are typically sold to investors within 7 to 15 days following funding. The facilities are secured by substantially all of the assets of each of the borrowers, including the mortgage loans held for sale, all rights of each of the borrowers with respect to contractual obligations of third party investors to purchase such mortgage loans, and all proceeds of sale of such mortgage loans. The facilities, which have LIBOR based pricing, also contain certain financial covenants requiring the borrowers to maintain minimum tangible net worth, leverage, profitability and liquidity. These facilities are non-recourse and are not guaranteed by the Company. At September 30, 2008 the outstanding balance under these facilities was $10.8 million.

Land Banking Arrangements

The Company enters into purchase agreements with various land sellers. In some instances, and as a method of acquiring land in staged takedowns, thereby minimizing the use of funds from the Company’s revolving credit facilities and other corporate financing sources and limiting the Company’s risk, the Company transfers its right in such purchase agreements to entities owned by third parties (land banking arrangements). These entities use equity contributions and/or incur debt to finance the acquisition and development of the lots. The entities grant the Company an option to acquire lots in staged takedowns. In consideration for this option, the Company makes a non-refundable deposit of 15% to 25% of the total purchase price. Additionally, the Company may be subject to other penalties if lots are not acquired. The Company is under no obligation to purchase the balance of the lots, but would forfeit remaining deposits and be subject to penalties if the lots were not purchased. The Company does not have legal title to these entities or their assets and has not guaranteed their liabilities. These land banking arrangements help the Company manage the financial and market risk associated with land holdings. The use of these land banking arrangements is dependent on, among other things, the availability of capital to the option provider, general housing market conditions and geographic preferences. As described in Note 2 of “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements”, Interpretation No. 46, requires the consolidation of the assets, liabilities and operations of two of the Company’s land banking arrangements including, as of September 30, 2008, real estate inventories of $27.7 million, which are included in real estate inventories not owned in the Company’s consolidated balance sheet.

In addition, the Company participates in two land banking arrangements, which are not VIE’s in accordance with Interpretation No. 46, but are consolidated in accordance with SFAS No. 49, Accounting for Product Financing Arrangements, (“FAS 49”). Under the provisions of FAS 49, the Company has determined it is economically compelled, based on certain factors, to purchase the land in the land banking arrangements, and therefore, must record the remaining purchase price of the land of $82.0 million, which is included in real estate inventories not owned and liabilities from inventories not owned in the accompanying balance sheet.

Summary information with respect to the Company’s consolidated and unconsolidated land banking arrangements is as follows as of September 30, 2008 (dollars in thousands):

 

Total number of land banking projects

     4
      

Total number of lots

     1,054
      

Total purchase price

   $ 231,448
      

Balance of lots still under option and not purchased:

  

Number of lots

     605
      

Purchase price

   $ 109,696
      

Forfeited deposits (cash and letters of credit) if lots were not purchased

   $ 42,003
      

 

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Joint Venture Financing

The Company and certain of its subsidiaries are general partners or members in joint ventures involved in the development and sale of residential projects. As described more fully in Note 2 of “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements”, in accordance with Interpretation No. 46 certain joint ventures have been determined to be variable interest entities in which the Company is considered the primary beneficiary. Accordingly, the assets, liabilities and operations of these joint ventures have been consolidated with the Company’s financial statements. The financial statements of joint ventures in which the Company is not considered the primary beneficiary are not consolidated with the Company’s financial statements. The Company’s investments in unconsolidated joint ventures are accounted for using the equity method because the Company has a 50% or less voting or economic interest (and thus such joint ventures are not controlled by the Company). Income allocations and cash distributions to the Company from the unconsolidated joint ventures are based on predetermined formulas between the Company and its joint venture partners as specified in the applicable partnership or operating agreements. The Company generally receives, after partners’ priority returns and returns of partners’ capital, approximately 50% of the profits and cash flows from joint ventures. See Note 2 of “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for condensed combined financial information for the joint ventures whose financial statements have been consolidated with the Company’s financial statements. See Note 5 of “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for condensed combined financial information for the unconsolidated joint ventures. Based upon current estimates, substantially all future development and construction costs incurred by the joint ventures will be funded by the venture partners or from the proceeds of construction financing obtained by the joint ventures.

As of September 30, 2008, the Company’s investment in and advances to unconsolidated joint ventures was $2.1 million and the venture partners’ investment in such joint ventures was $3.2 million. As of September 30, 2008, one of these joint ventures had obtained financing from a construction lender which amounted to $7.4 million of outstanding indebtedness. As of September 30, 2008, the Company was not in compliance with the ratio of indebtedness to tangible net worth covenant under the loan documents. The Company and its joint venture partner have agreed to repay the $7.4 million of outstanding indebtedness in December 2008, which would require a cash expenditure of approximately $3.7 million (plus accrued and unpaid interest) from the Company.

Assessment District Bonds

In some jurisdictions in which the Company develops and constructs property, assessment district bonds are issued by municipalities to finance major infrastructure improvements and fees. Such financing has been an important part of financing master-planned communities due to the long-term nature of the financing, favorable interest rates when compared to the Company’s other sources of funds and the fact that the bonds are sold, administered and collected by the relevant government entity. As a landowner benefited by the improvements, the Company is responsible for the assessments on its land. When the Company’s homes or other properties are sold, the assessments are either prepaid or the buyers assume the responsibility for the related assessments.

Cash Flows — Comparison of Nine Months Ended September 30, 2008 to Nine Months Ended September 30, 2007

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities increased to a source of $43.5 million in the 2008 period from a use of $94.6 million in the 2007 period. The change was primarily as a result of (i) a decrease in real estate inventories-owned of $99.6 million in the 2008 period from an increase of $156.0 million in the 2007 period, (ii) an increase in accrued expenses of $1.6 million in the 2008 period compared to a decrease of $44.3 million in the 2007 period, (iii) a decrease in receivables of $15.5 million in the 2008 period compared to a decrease of $88.2 million in the 2007 period, (iv) a benefit for income taxes of $41.6 million in the 2008 period compared to a provision for income taxes of $30.2 million in the 2007 period, (v) impairment loss on real estate assets of $68.0 million in the 2008 period compared to $146.7 million in the 2007 period and (vi) net loss of $80.8 million in the 2008 period compared to net loss of $163.5 million in the 2007 period.

 

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The decrease in real estate inventories-owned is primarily attributable to a decrease in land acquisitions and construction expenditures during the 2008 period compared to the 2007 period due to decreased demand for housing. The decrease in accrued expenses is partially attributable to (i) the decrease in accrued deferred compensation of $6.7 million in the 2008 period due to the termination of the Company’s Executive Deferred Compensation Plan (previously disclosed in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ending December 31, 2007). As of December 31, 2007, the deferred compensation liability balance was $6.7 million. In addition, a net increase in accrued interest of $8.3 million during the 2008 period from a balance of $13.7 million as of December 31, 2007 compared to $22.0 million as of September 30, 2008. Comparatively, during the 2007 period, the net change in accrued expenses consisted of a net decrease in accrued bonus expense of $28.9 million during the 2007 period from a balance of $39.4 million as of December 31, 2006 compared to $10.5 million as of September 30, 2007 and (ii) a net decrease in income taxes payable of $7.3 million during the 2007 period from a balance of $4.1 million as of December 31, 2006 compared to $(3.2) million as of September 30, 2007. The changes identified above during the nine months of the periods ending September 30, 2008 and 2007 are recurring in nature and are attributable to the timing of interest and bonus payments made each year, offset by normal accruals for the period.

The decrease in receivables is attributable to a decrease in escrow proceeds receivable of $15.9 million during the 2008 period from a balance of $19.2 million as of December 31, 2007 to a balance of $3.3 million as of September 30, 2008, compared to a decrease of $42.3 million during the 2007 period, from a balance of $47.3 million as of December 31, 2006 to a balance of $5.0 million as of September 30, 2007. The large balance as of December 31, 2007 and 2006 was temporary in nature and primarily due to a significant number of homes closed in the last five days of the year of 122 in 2007 and 192 in 2006 where the homes had closed escrow but the Company had not yet received the funds from the escrow and title companies. The entire balance of escrow proceeds receivable at December 31, 2007 and 2006 was collected within the first few days of the following period.

The differences in (i) impairment loss on real estate assets, (ii) (benefit) provision for income taxes and (iii) net loss from the 2007 period to the 2008 period are discussed above in Item 2 — Results of Operations.

The risks inherent in purchasing and developing land increase as consumer demand for housing decreases. Thus, the Company may have bought and developed land on which it cannot profitably build and sell homes. The market value of land, building lots and housing inventories can fluctuate significantly as a result of changing market conditions. In addition, inventory carrying costs can be significant and can result in losses in a poorly performing project or market. In the event of significant changes in economic or market conditions, the Company may have to sell homes at significantly lower margins or at a loss.

Net cash used in investing activities decreased to $0.3 million in the 2008 period from $6.9 million in the 2007 period. The change was a result of (i) a decrease in investments in and advances to unconsolidated joint ventures to $0.04 million in the 2008 period from $4.6 million in the 2007 period and (ii) the net cash paid for the purchase of partner’s interest in unconsolidated joint ventures of $1.5 million in the 2007 period.

Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities decreased to a use of $1.3 million in the 2008 period from a source of $97.2 million in the 2007 period, primarily as a result of minority interest distributions of $3.9 million in the 2008 period compared to $19.9 million in the 2007 period and net borrowings on notes payable of $2.6 million in the 2008 period compared to net borrowings on notes payable of $117.0 in the 2007 period.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

The Company enters into certain off-balance sheet arrangements including joint venture financing, option arrangements, land banking arrangements and variable interests in consolidated and unconsolidated entities. These arrangements are more fully described above and in Notes 2, 4 and 9 to Consolidated Financial Statements. In addition, the Company is party to certain contractual obligations, including land purchases and project commitments, which are detailed in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007.

 

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Table of Contents

Description of Projects

The Company’s homebuilding projects usually take two to five years to develop. The following tables presents project information to each of the Company’s homebuilding divisions.

 

Project (County) Product

  Year of
First
Delivery
  Estimated
Number of
Homes at
Completion(1)
  Cumulative
Units
Closed as
of

Sept 30,
2008
  Backlog
at
Sept 30,
2008(2)(3)
  Lots
Owned
as of
Sept 30,
2008(4)
  Homes Closed
for the Year
Ended
Sept 30,

2008
  Sales Price Range(5)

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA REGION

 

SAN DIEGO/INLAND EMPIRE DIVISION

             

Wholly-Owned:

             

San Diego:

             

Promenade

  2006   168   80   0   88   14   $370,000 - 480,000

Alcala Del Sur

  2005   83   83   0   0   2   $660,000 - 710,000

Pasado Del Sur

  2009   89   0   20   25   0   $535,000 - 575,000

Maybeck

  2006   51   51   0   0   13   $630,000 - 710,000

Sunset Cove

  2007   35   35   0   0   6   $420,000 - 460,000

Santee:

             

Altair

  2008   85   17   23   68   17   $277,000 - 338,000

Riverside County:

             

Parkside, Corona

  2007   122   94   24   28   25   $441,000 - 559,000

Serafina, North Corona

  2007   314   221   24   93   31   $265,000 - 319,000

Bridle Creek, Corona

  2003   274   241   20   33   6   $436,000 - 560,000

Savannah at Harveston Ranch, Temecula

  2005   162   136   26   26   3   $257,000 - 220,000

San Bernardino County:

             

Adelina, Fontana

  2008   109   18   13   91   18   $265,000 - 295,000

Rosabella, Fontana

  2007   114   26   7   88   22   $249,000 - 286,000

Amador, Rancho Cucamonga

  2007   69   27   9   42   10   $278,000 - 335,000

Vintner's Grove, Rancho Cucamongo

             

Sollara SFD

  2007   45   11   14   34   2   $375,000 - 405,000

Canela Triplex

  2007   63   15   14   48   2   $260,000 - 321,000

Chapman Heights, Yucaipa

             

Braeburn

  2005   113   107   6   6   15   $425,000 - 515,000

Crofton

  2005   140   140   0   0   4   $403,000 - 433,000

Vista Bella

  2012   108   0   0   108   0   $255,000 - 286,000

Redcort

  2012   90   0   0   90   0   $284,000 - 309,000
                       

Total Wholly-Owned:

    2,234   1,302   200   868   190  
                       

Joint Ventures:

             

San Diego:

             

Ravenna

  2005   199   199   0   0   1   $453,000 - 513,000

Treviso

  2005   186   164   20   22   10   $300,000 - 435,000
                       

Total Joint Ventures:

    385   363   20   22   11  
                       

TOTAL SAN DIEGO/INLAND EMPIRE DIVISION

    2,619   1,665   220   890   201  
                       

ORANGE COUNTY/LOS ANGELES DIVISION

             

Wholly-Owned:

             

Irvine:

             

San Carlos

  2007   143   39   12   1   19   $380,000 - 525,000

Ivy

  2010   135   0   0   0   0   $390,000 - 445,000

Columbus Grove:

             

Lantana

  2006   102   102   0   0   14   $765,000 - 840,000

Kensington

  2006   63   63   0   0   11   $640,000 - 775,000

Tustin:

             

Columbus Grove/Columbus Square:

             

Clarendon

  2007   102   102   0   0   2   $270,000 - 650,000

Astoria

  2007   38   38   0   0   12   $725,000 - 850,000

Cambridge Lane

  2007   156   99   37   57   8   $ 95,000 - 500,000

Ciara

  2007   67   54   6   13   15   $1,000,000 - 1,200,000

Verandas

  2007   44   44   0   0   18   $650,000 - 705,000

 

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Table of Contents

Project (County) Product

  Year of
First
Delivery
  Estimated
Number of
Homes at
Completion(1)
  Cumulative
Units
Closed as
of

Sept 30,
2008
  Backlog
at
Sept 30,
2008(2)(3)
  Lots
Owned
as of
Sept 30,
2008(4)
  Homes Closed
for the Year
Ended
Sept 30,

2008
  Sales Price Range(5)

San Clemente:

             

Alora

  2008   13   13   0   0   13   $950,000 - 1,050,000

San Juan Capistrano:

             

Floralisa

  2005   80   80   0   0   6   $1,275,000 - 1,295,000

Estrella Rosa

  2006   40   40   0   0   1   $1,675,000 - 1,725,000

Moorpark:

             

Meridian Hills:

             

Ashford

  2006   31   31   0   0   3   $780,000 - 890,000

Marquis

  2007   34   34   0   0   7   $830,000 - 975,000

Los Angeles:

             

Arboreta at Rainbird

             

Vintage

  2008   87   0   17   87   0   $395,000 - 505,000

Tradition

  2008   53   22   16   31   22   $600,000 - 689,000

Hawthorne:

             

360 South Bay(6):

             

The Flats

  2010   188   0   0   188   0   $435,000 - 615,000

The Lofts

  2010   123   0   0   123   0   $460,000 - 680,000

The Rows

  2010   94   0   0   94   0   $615,000 - 715,000

The Courts

  2010   118   0   0   118   0   $560,000 - 695,000

The Gardens

  2010   102   0   0   102   0   $665,000 - 860,000

Azusa:

             

Rosedale(6):

             

Gardenia

  2010   147   0   0   81   0   $435,000 - 530,000

Sage Court

  2010   176   0   0   64   0   $405,000 - 495,000
                       

TOTAL ORANGE COUNTY/LOS ANGELES DIVISION

    2,136   761   88   959   151  
                       

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA REGION COMBINED TOTAL

             

Wholly-Owned

    4,370   2,063   288   1,827   341  

Joint Ventures

    385   363   20   22   11  
                       
    4,755   2,426   308   1,849   352  
                       

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA REGION

 

Wholly-Owned:

             

Contra Costa County:

             

Seagate at Bayside, Hercules

  2005   96   96   0   0   1   $615,000 - 727,000

Rivergate I & II, Antioch

  2006   167   128   15   39   11   $350,000 - 430,000

Vista Del Mar, Pittsburgh

             

Vineyard(6)

  2007   155   14   2   141   13   $650,000 - 710,000

Victory(6)

  2008   129   11   2   118   11   $680,000 - 745,000

Stanislaus County:

             

Falling Leaf, Modesto

             

Trails

  2006   43   43   0   0   15   $260,000 - 325,000

Groves

  2006   43   43   0   0   9   $273,000 - 308,000

Meadows

  2006   33   33   0   0   14   $359,000 - 400,000

Placer County:

             

Whitney Ranch, Rocklin

             

Shady Lane

  2006   96   55   14   41   13   $365,000 - 391,000

Twin Oaks

  2006   92   34   5   58   9   $400,000 - 470,000

Sacramento County:

             

Big Horn, Elk Grove

             

Plaza Walk

  2005   106   81   10   25   15   $250,000 - 300,000

Gallery Walk

  2005   149   112   6   37   17   $200,000 - 235,000

Verona at Anatolia, Rancho Cordova

  2005   79   79   0   0   12   $400,000 - 425,000

Marquee at Fair Oaks

  2007   21   18   0   3   10   $250,000 - 360,000
                       

Total Wholly-Owned

    1,209   747   54   462   150  
                       

 

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Table of Contents

Project (County) Product

  Year of
First
Delivery
  Estimated
Number of
Homes at
Completion(1)
  Cumulative
Units
Closed as
of

Sept 30,
2008
  Backlog
at
Sept 30,
2008(2)(3)
  Lots
Owned
as of
Sept 30,
2008(4)
  Homes Closed
for the Year
Ended

Sept 30,
2008
  Sales Price Range(5)

Joint Ventures:

             

Contra Costa County:

             

Vista Del Mar, Pittsburgh

             

Villages

  2007   102   36   7   66   12   $303,000 -375,000

Venue

  2007   132   37   4   95   11   $363,000 -430,000

Monterey County:

             

East Garrison

  2011   603   0   0   603   0   $239,000 -780,000
                       

Total Joint Ventures:

    837   73   11   764   23  
                       

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA REGION COMBINED TOTAL

             

Wholly-Owned

    1,209   747   54   462   150  

Joint Ventures

    837   73   11   764   23  
                       
    2,046   820   65   1,226   173  
                       

ARIZONA REGION

 

Wholly-Owned:

             

Maricopa County

             

Copper Canyon Ranch, Surprise
Sunset Point

  2004   282   282   0   0   1   $287,000 -383,000

Talavera, Phoenix

  2006   134   134   0   0   9   $256,000 -330,000

Coldwater Ranch, Maricopa County

  2009   368   0   0   368   0   $141,000 -183,000

Lehi Crossing, Mesa

  2012   880   0   0   552   0   $209,000 -288,000

Rancho Mercado, Phoenix

  2012   1,850   0   0   1,850   0   $194,000 -282,000

Hastings Property, Queen Creek

  2011   631   0   0   631   0   $245,000 -436,000

Lyon’s Gate, Gilbert:

             

Pride

  2006   650   319   34   331   54   $158,000 -188,000

Savanna

  2006   174   144   4   30   32   $200,000 -241,000

Sahara

  2006   169   136   6   33   34   $236,000 -290,000

Acacia

  2007   365   63   15   302   41   $189,000 -245,000

Future Products

  2009   213   0   0   213   0  
                       

Total Wholly-Owned:

    5,716   1,078   59   4,310   171  
                       

Joint Ventures:

             

Maricopa County

             

Circle G at the Church Farm North

    1,745   0   0   1,745   0  
                       

Total Joint Ventures:

    1,745   0   0   1,745   0  
                       

ARIZONA REGION TOTAL

    7,461   1,078   59   6,055   171  
                       

NEVADA REGION

 

Wholly-Owned:

             

Clark County

             

Summerlin, Las Vegas

             

Kingwood Crossing

  2006   100   79   12   21   19   $385,000 -471,000

North Las Vegas

             

The Cottages

  2004   360   305   2   55   8   $172,000 -199,000

La Tierra

  2006   67   60   0   7   7   $315,000 -345,000

Tierra Este

  2008   126   6   2   120   6   $275,000 -305,000

Carson Ranch, Las Vegas

             

West Series I

  2005   71   67   0   4   0   $395,000 -430,000

West Series II

  2005   59   53   0   6   2   $406,000 -503,000

East Series I

  2006   103   63   5   40   13   $305,000 -340,000

East Series II

  2007   58   15   3   43   8   $299,000 -361,000

West Park, Las Vegas

             

Villas

  2006   191   71   6   120   27   $283,000 -325,000

Courtyards

  2006   113   56   7   57   19   $330,000 -380,000

Mesa Canyon, Las Vegas

  2011   49   0   0   49   0   $410,000 -446,000

The Lyon Estates, Las Vegas

  2012   129   0   0   129   0   $610,000 -682,000

 

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Project (County) Product

  Year of
First
Delivery
  Estimated
Number of
Homes at
Completion(1)
  Cumulative
Units
Closed as
of

Sept 30,
2008
  Backlog
at
Sept 30,
2008(2)(3)
  Lots
Owned
as of
Sept 30,
2008(4)
  Homes Closed
for the Year
Ended

Sept 30,
2008
  Sales Price Range(5)

Nye County

             

Mountain Falls, Pahrump:

             

Cascata

  2005   147   137   0   10   0   $ 216,000 - 238,000

Tramonto

  2005   212   164   2   48   11   $ 256,000 - 291,000

Move up Product

  2011   91   0   0   91   0  

Bella Sera

  2005   129   101   5   28   9   $ 312,000 - 352,000

Cascata Ancora

  2007   118   53   2   65   16   $ 196,000 - 218,000

Entrata

  2007   99   17   2   82   11   $ 177,000 - 199,000

Future Projects

  2010   1,925   0   0   1,925   0  
                       

NEVADA REGION TOTAL

    4,147   1,247   48   2,900   156  
                       

GRAND TOTALS:

             

Wholly-Owned

    15,442   5,135   449   9,499   818  

Joint Ventures

    2,967   436   31   2,531   34  
                       
    18,409   5,571   480   12,030   852  
                       

 

(1) The estimated number of homes to be built at completion is subject to change, and there can be no assurance that the Company will build these homes.
(2) Backlog consists of homes sold under sales contracts that have not yet closed, and there can be no assurance that closings of sold homes will occur.
(3) Of the total homes subject to pending sales contracts as of September 30, 2008, 456 represent homes completed or under construction and 24 represent homes not yet under construction.
(4) Lots owned as of September 30, 2008 include lots in backlog at September 30, 2008.
(5) Sales price range reflects base price only and excluded any lot premium, buyer incentive and buyer selected options, which vary from project to project.
(6) All or a portion of the lots in this project are not owned as of September 30, 2008. The Company consolidated the purchase price of the lots in accordance with Interpretation No. 46, and considers the lots owned at September 30, 2008.

 

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Income Taxes

Effective January 1, 2007, the Company made an election in accordance with federal and state regulations to be taxed as an “S” corporation rather than a “C” corporation. Under this election, the Company’s taxable income flowed through to and was reported on the personal tax returns of its shareholders. The shareholders were responsible for paying the appropriate taxes based on this election. The Company did not pay any federal taxes under this election and was only required to pay certain state taxes based on a rate of approximately 1.5% of taxable income. As a result of this election, the Company’s provision for income taxes for the nine months ended September 30, 2007 included a reduction of deferred tax assets of $31.9 million due to the elimination of any future tax benefit by the Company from such assets. In addition, unused recognized built in losses in the amount of $19.4 million are no longer available to the Company.

Effective January 1, 2008, the Company and its shareholders made a revocation of the “S” corporation election. As a result of this revocation, the Company will be taxed as a “C” corporation. The shareholders will not be able to elect “S” corporation status for at least five years. The revocation of the “S” corporation election will allow taxable losses generated in 2008 to be carried back to the 2006 “C” corporation year. As a result of the change in tax status, the Company recorded a deferred tax asset of $41.6 million as of January 1, 2008. The recorded deferred tax asset reflects the anticipated tax refund for the carry back of the estimated 2008 tax loss to 2006. The Company expects to receive the refund in early 2009. In addition, as of January 1, 2008, the Company has unused built-in losses of $19.4 million which are available to offset future income and expire between 2010 and 2011. The utilization of these losses is limited to $3.9 million of taxable income per year; however, any unused losses in any year may be carried forward for utilization in future years through 2010 and 2011. The maximum cumulative unused built-in loss that may be carried forward through 2010 and 2011 is $11.5 million and $7.9 million, respectively. The Company’s ability to utilize the foregoing tax benefits will depend upon the amount of its future taxable income and may be limited under certain circumstances.

Effective January 1, 2007, the company adopted the provisions of FASB Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes—an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109” (“FIN 48”). FIN 48 prescribes a recognition threshold and a measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of tax positions taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. For those benefits to be recognized, a tax position must be considered “more-likely-than-not” to be sustained upon examination by taxing authorities. The Company has taken positions in certain taxing jurisdictions for which it is more likely than not that previously unrecognized tax benefits will be recognized. In addition, the Company has elected to recognize interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions in the income tax provision. In accordance with the provisions of FIN 48, effective January 1, 2007, the Company recorded an income tax refund receivable of $5.7 million and recognized the associated tax benefit as an increase in additional paid-in capital. In connection therewith, the Company recorded interest receivable of $1.1 million and recognized the associated tax benefit as an increase in retained earnings. At December 31, 2007 and September 30, 2008, the Company has no unrecognized tax benefits.

The Company and its subsidiaries file income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction and various state jurisdictions. The Company is subject to U.S. federal income tax examination for calendar tax years ending 2002 through 2007. The Company is subject to various state income tax examinations for calendar tax years ending 2004 through 2007.

The Company is currently under income tax examination by the Internal Revenue Service for the years ended December 31, 2002, 2003 and 2004. During 2007, the Company completed state income tax examinations in the states of California and Arizona for the years ended December 31, 2002 and 2003 with no significant adjustments.

Related Party Transactions

See Note 7 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for a description of the Company’s transactions with related parties.

 

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Critical Accounting Polices

The Company’s financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. The preparation of these financial statements requires management to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and costs and expenses during the reporting period. On an on-going basis, management evaluates its estimates and judgments, including those which impact its most critical accounting policies. Management bases its estimates and judgments on historical experience and on various other factors that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions. As disclosed in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007, the Company’s most critical accounting policies are real estate inventories and cost of sales; impairment of real estate inventories; sales and profit recognition; and variable interest entities. Since December 31, 2007, there have been no changes in the Company’s most critical accounting policies and no material changes in the assumptions and estimates used by management.

Recently Issued Accounting Standards

In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, Fair Value Measurements, (“FAS 157”). FAS 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. FAS 157 applies under other accounting pronouncements that require or permit fair value measurement and requires prospective application for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. In February 2008, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position No. FAS 157-2, “Effective Date of FASB Statement No. 157” (the “FSP”). The FSP amends FAS 157 to delay the effective date of FAS 157 for non-financial assets and non-financial liabilities, except for items that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the financial statements on a recurring basis. For items within its scope, the FSP defers the effective date of FAS 157 to fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008. The adoption of FAS 157 by the Company effective as of January 1, 2008 does not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial position or results of operations.

In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS NO. 159, The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities (“FAS 159”). FAS 159 permits all entities to choose to measure eligible items at fair value at specified election dates. FAS 159 is effective as of the beginning of an entity’s first fiscal year that begins after November 15, 2007. On January 1, 2008, the Company did not elect to apply the fair value option to any specific financial assets or liabilities.

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141 (Revised), Business Combinations (“FAS 141R”). FAS 141R establishes principles and requirements for how the acquirer of a business recognizes and measures in its financial statements the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed (including intangibles), and any non-controlling interest in the acquired entity. FAS 141R also provides guidance for recognizing and measuring the goodwill acquired in the business combination and determines what information to disclose to enable users of the financial statements to evaluate the nature and financial effects of the business combination. FAS 141R is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008. The adoption of FAS No. 141R on January 1, 2009 will require the Company to expense all transaction costs for future business combinations which may be significant to the Company based on historical acquisition activity.

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 160, Non-controlling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements-an amendment of ARB No. 51 (“FAS 160”). FAS 160 establishes accounting and reporting standards for a parent company’s non-controlling interest in a subsidiary and for the de-consolidation of a subsidiary. FAS 160 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008. The adoption of FAS No. 160 on January 1, 2009 shall be applied prospectively, except for the presentation and disclosure requirements, which shall be applied retrospectively for all periods presented, including the requirement that the non-controlling interest shall be reclassified to equity. The adoption of FAS No. 160 will require the Company to record gains or losses upon changes in control which could have a significant impact on the consolidated financial statements.

 

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In February 2008, the FASB issued FSP No. 140-3, Accounting for Transfers of Financial Assets and Repurchase Financing Transactions (“FSP 140-3”). FSP 140-3 provides guidance on the accounting for a purchase of a financial asset from a counterparty and contemporaneous financing of the acquisition through repurchase agreements with the same counterparty. Under this guidance, the purchase and related financing are linked, unless all of the following conditions are met at the inception of the transaction: (i) the purchase and corresponding financing are not contractually contingent; (ii) the repurchase financing provides recourse; (iii) the financial asset and repurchase financing are readily obtainable in the marketplace and are executed at market rates; and (iv) the maturity of financial asset and repurchase are not coterminous. A linked transaction would require an analysis under SFAS No. 140, Accounting for Transfers and Servicing of Financial Assets and Extinguishments of Liabilities (“SFAS 140”) to determine whether the transaction meets the requirements for sale accounting. If the linked transaction does not meet sale accounting requirements, the net investment in the linked transaction is to be recorded as a derivative with the corresponding change in fair value of the derivative being recorded through earnings. The value of the derivative would reflect changes in the value of the underlying debt investments and changes in the value of the underlying credit provided by the counterparty. The Company currently presents these transactions gross, with the acquisition of the financial assets in total assets and the related repurchase agreements as financings in total liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet. The interest income earned on the debt investments and interest expense incurred on the repurchase obligations are reported gross on the consolidated income statements. FSP 140-3 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008. The Company is currently evaluating the effect that this pronouncement will have on its financial statements.

In March 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 161, Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, an amendment of SFAS No. 133, (“FAS 161”). FAS 161 applies to all derivative instruments and related hedged items accounted for under SFAS No. 133, Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities (“FAS 133”). FAS 161 requires entities to provide greater transparency about (i) how and why an entity uses derivative instruments, (ii) how derivative instruments and related hedged items are accounted for under FAS 133 and its related interpretations and (iii) how derivative instruments and related hedged items affect an entity’s financial position, results of operations, and cash flows. FAS 161 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008. The Company does not anticipate the adoption of FAS 161 to have a material impact on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

In May 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 162, The Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“SFAS 162”). SFAS 162 identifies the sources of accounting principles and the framework for selecting principles to be used in the preparation and presentation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP. This statement will be effective 60 days after the SEC approves the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board’s amendments to AU Section 411, The Meaning of Present Fairly in Conformity with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles. The Company does not anticipate the adoption of SFAS 162 will have a significant effect on its consolidated financial statements.

Item 3.    Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

The Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007, includes detailed disclosure about quantitative and qualitative disclosures about market risk. Quantitative and qualitative disclosures about market risk have not materially changed since December 31, 2007.

Item 4.    Controls and Procedures

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures.    An evaluation was performed under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s management, including its principal executive officer and principal financial officer, of the effectiveness of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended). Based on that evaluation, the Company’s principal executive officer and principal financial officer concluded that the Company’s disclosure

 

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controls and procedures were effective as of the end of the period covered by this Quarterly Report. Although the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures have been designed to provide reasonable assurance of achieving their objectives, there can be no assurance that such disclosure controls and procedures will always achieve their stated goals under all circumstances.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting.    There have been no significant changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) that occurred during the period covered by this Quarterly Report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

Item 4T.

Not Applicable

 

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WILLIAM LYON HOMES

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.    Legal Proceedings

Litigation Arising from General Lyon’s Tender Offer

As described above in Part I, Item 2 under the caption “Tender Offer”, on March 17, 2006, the Company’s principal stockholder commenced a tender offer (the “Tender Offer”) to purchase all outstanding shares of the Company’s common stock not already owned by him. Initially, the price offered in the Tender Offer was $93 per share, but it was subsequently increased to $109 per share.

Two purported class action lawsuits were filed in the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware in and for New Castle County, purportedly on behalf of the public stockholders of the Company, challenging the Tender Offer and challenging related actions of the Company and the directors of the Company. Stephen L. Brown v. William Lyon Homes, et al., Civil Action No. 2015-N was filed on March 20, 2006, and Michael Crady, et al. v. General William Lyon, et al., Civil Action No. 2017-N was filed on March 21, 2006 (collectively, the “Delaware Complaints”). On March 21, 2006, plaintiff in the Brown action also filed a First Amended Complaint. The Delaware Complaints named the Company and the directors of the Company as defendants. These complaints alleged, among other things, that the defendants had breached their fiduciary duties owed to the plaintiffs in connection with the Tender Offer and other related corporate activities. The plaintiffs sought to enjoin the Tender Offer and, among other things, to obtain attorneys’ fees and expenses related to the litigation.

On March 23, 2006, the Company announced that its Board had appointed a special committee of independent directors who were not members of the Company’s management or employed by the Company (the “Special Committee”) to consider the Tender Offer. The members of the Special Committee were Harold H. Greene, Lawrence M. Higby, and Dr. Arthur Laffer. The Company also announced that the Special Committee had retained Morgan Stanley & Co. as its financial advisor and Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP as its legal counsel.

On March 24, 2006, the Delaware Chancery Court consolidated the Delaware Complaints into a single case entitled In re: William Lyon Homes Shareholder Litigation, Civil Action No. 2015-N (the “Consolidated Delaware Action”).

On April 10, 2006, the parties to the Consolidated Delaware Action executed a Memorandum of Understanding (“MOU”), detailing a proposed settlement subject to the Delaware Chancery Court’s approval. Pursuant to the MOU, General Lyon increased his offer of $93 per share to $100 per share, extended the closing date of the offer to April 21, 2006, and, on April 11, 2006, filed an amended Schedule TO. Plaintiffs in the Consolidated Delaware Action have determined that the settlement is “fair, reasonable, adequate, and in the best interests of plaintiffs and the putative Class.” The Special Committee also determined that the price of $100 per share was fair to the shareholders, and recommended that the Company’s shareholders accept the revised Tender Offer and tender their shares. Thereafter, General Lyon also decided to further extend the closing date of the Tender Offer from April 21, 2006 to April 28, 2006.

On April 23, 2006, Delaware Chancery Court conditionally certified a class in the Consolidated Delaware Action. The parties to the Consolidated Delaware Action agreed to a Stipulation of Settlement, and on August 9, 2006, the Delaware Chancery Court certified a class in the Consolidated Delaware Action, approved the settlement, and dismissed the Consolidated Delaware Action with prejudice as to all defendants and the class. On February 16, 2007, the fee award to Plaintiffs’ counsel was appealed to the Supreme Court of the State of Delaware. On July 18, 2007, a three-judge panel of the Delaware Supreme Court remanded the matter to the Chancery Court for further proceedings regarding the fee award to Plaintiff’s counsel. Under the appealed award, the Company has no expected liability for Plaintiffs’ counsel fees, which are expected to be paid by General Lyon.

A purported class action lawsuit challenging the Tender Offer was also filed in the Superior Court of the State of California, County of Orange. On March 17, 2006, a complaint captioned Alaska Electrical Pension

 

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Fund v. William Lyon Homes, Inc., et al., Case No. 06-CC-00047, was filed. On April 5, 2006, plaintiff in the Alaska Electrical action filed an Amended Complaint (the “California Action”). The complaint in the California Action named the Company and the directors of the Company as defendants and alleged, among other things, that the defendants had breached their fiduciary duties to the public stockholders. Plaintiff in the California Action also sought to enjoin the Tender Offer, and, among other things, to obtain attorneys’ fees and expenses related to the litigation.

On April 20, 2006, the California court denied the request of plaintiff in the California Action to enjoin the Tender Offer. Plaintiff filed a motion to certify a class in the California Action which was later taken off calendar, and the Company filed a motion to stay the California Action. On July 5, 2006, the California Court granted the Company’s motion to stay the California Action.

Item 1A.    Risk Factors

The Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007, includes detailed disclosure about risk factors which should be carefully considered when evaluating any investment in the Company. Risk factors have not materially changed since December 31, 2007, except as stated below:

HOMEBUILDING OPERATIONS

Recent Disruptions in the Financial Markets Could Adversely Affect Demand for the Company’s Products or Access to Capital

The home building industry can be greatly affected by macro economic factors, including changes in national, regional, and local economic conditions, as well as potential home buyers’ perceptions of such economic factors. These factors, including employment levels, income, prices, and credit availability and interest rates affecting homeowners, can adversely affect the residential real estate market. As discussed in this and prior reports, the residential real estate market has been particularly challenging over the last several quarters. The recent disruptions in the overall economy and, in particular, the credit and financial markets, have further deteriorated this environment and could further reduce consumer income, liquidity, credit and confidence in the economy, and result in further reductions in new and existing home sales. Further deterioration of the credit markets or the residential real estate market could be severely harmful to the Company’s financial position and results of operations and could adversely affect the Company’s liquidity or its ability to comply with the covenants under its indentures and credit facilities. There can be no assurances that recent or future government responses to the disruptions in the financial markets will restore consumer confidence, stabilize such markets or increase liquidity and the availability of credit to consumers and businesses.

CONSTRUCTION SERVICES

Supply and labor shortages and other risks could increase costs and delay completion.

Construction services operations could be adversely affected by fluctuating prices and limited supplies of building materials as well as the cost and availability of trades personnel. These prices and supplies may be adversely affected by natural disasters and adverse weather conditions, which could cause increased costs and delays in construction that could have an adverse effect upon our construction services operations.

The Company is subject to changes in the demand for construction projects.

Individual markets can be sensitive to overall capital spending trends in the economy, financing and capital availability for real estate and competitive pressures on the availability and pricing of construction projects. These factors can result in a reduction in the supply of suitable projects, increased competition and reduced margins on construction contracts.

 

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The timing and funding of contracts and other factors could lead to unpredictable operating results.

Construction services operations are also subject to other risks and uncertainties, including the timing of new contracts and the funding of such awards; the length of time over which construction contracts are to be performed; cancellations of, or changes in the scope of, existing contracts; and the ability to meet performance or schedule guarantees and cost overruns.

Items 2, 3, 4 and 5.

Not applicable.

Item 6.    Exhibits

 

Exhibit
No.

  

Description

10.1   

Second Amendment Agreement dated as of September 2, 2008, by and between William Lyon Homes, Inc., a California Corporation (“Borrower”), and Comerica Bank (“Lender”).

10.2   

Sixth Amendment to Amended and Restated Revolving Line of Credit Agreement dated as of September 17, 2008, by and between William Lyon Homes, Inc., a California corporation and California Bank & Trust, a California Banking Corporation (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 filed with the registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on September 24, 2008).

10.3   

Ninth Modification Agreement to Borrowing Base Revolving Line of Credit Agreement dated as of September 25, 2008 by and between William Lyon Homes, Inc., a California Corporation (“Borrower”) and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., a national banking association (“Bank”).

31.1   

Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

31.2   

Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

32.1   

Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

32.2   

Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

 

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WILLIAM LYON HOMES

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

   

WILLIAM LYON HOMES

Registrant

Date:  November 10, 2008     By:  

/s/    MICHAEL D. GRUBBS        

       

MICHAEL D. GRUBBS

Senior Vice President,

Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer

(Principal Financial Officer)

Date:  November 10, 2008     By:  

/s/    W. DOUGLASS HARRIS        

       

W. DOUGLASS HARRIS

Senior Vice President,
Corporate Controller and Corporate Secretary

(Principal Accounting Officer)

 

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EXHIBIT INDEX

 

Exhibit
No.

  

Description

10.1   

Second Amendment Agreement dated as of September 2, 2008, by and between William Lyon Homes, Inc., a California Corporation (“Borrower”), and Comerica Bank (“Lender”).

10.2   

Sixth Amendment to Amended and Restated Revolving Line of Credit Agreement dated as of September 17, 2008, by and between William Lyon Homes, Inc., a California corporation and California Bank & Trust, a California Banking Corporation (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.1 filed with the registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on September 24, 2008).

10.3   

Ninth Modification Agreement to Borrowing Base Revolving Line of Credit Agreement dated as of September 25, 2008 by and between William Lyon Homes, Inc., a California Corporation (“Borrower”) and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., a national banking association (“Bank”).

31.1   

Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

31.2   

Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

32.1   

Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

32.2   

Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

 

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