Revenue recognition is a critical aspect of financial reporting for any business, including custom homebuilders. Knowing when to recognize revenue ensures that your financial statements accurately reflect your company’s performance and helps maintain compliance with accounting standards. In this blog post, we will discuss the key principles of revenue recognition for custom homebuilders and how to apply them in your construction business.
Understand the Revenue Recognition Principle
The revenue recognition principle dictates that revenue should be recognized when it is earned and realizable. In the context of custom homebuilding, this means recognizing revenue as you complete various stages of a project rather than waiting until the entire project is finished. This method, known as the percentage-of-completion method, provides a more accurate picture of your company’s financial performance throughout the duration of a project.
Implement the Percentage-of-Completion Method
The percentage-of-completion method involves recognizing revenue based on the proportion of the project that has been completed.
To apply this method, you will need to:
- Estimate the total cost of the project: This includes labor, materials, subcontractor fees, and any other costs associated with the project.
- Track progress: Monitor the actual costs incurred and the work completed throughout the project.
- Calculate the percentage of completion: Divide the actual costs incurred by the estimated total cost to determine the percentage of completion.
- Recognize revenue: Multiply the percentage of completion by the total contract price to determine the amount of revenue that should be recognized for the reporting period.
Adjust for Changes in Project Estimates
It’s not uncommon for project estimates to change over time due to factors such as design changes, material price fluctuations, or unforeseen issues. When changes occur, it’s essential to adjust your revenue recognition accordingly. Update your estimated total cost and recalculate the percentage of completion to ensure that your revenue recognition remains accurate.
Recognize Revenue for Change Orders and Extras
Change orders and extras represent additional revenue for custom home builders. To recognize revenue for these items, follow the same percentage-of-completion method outlined above, applying it to the additional revenue generated by the change order or extra. Be sure to maintain clear documentation of all change orders and extras to ensure accurate revenue recognition.
Be Mindful of Losses on Projects
In some cases, a project may result in a loss, meaning that the actual costs exceed the total contract price. When this occurs, it’s essential to recognize the entire loss immediately, rather than waiting until the project is complete. This approach ensures that your financial statements accurately reflect the financial impact of the loss.
In conclusion, proper revenue recognition is crucial for custom homebuilders to maintain accurate financial reporting and compliance with accounting standards. By implementing the percentage-of-completion method, adjusting for changes in project estimates, and recognizing revenue for change orders and extras, you can ensure that your company’s financial performance is accurately represented. Remember that diligent revenue recognition practices contribute to the overall financial health and stability of your custom homebuilding business.
GET THE PROFESSIONAL BOOKKEEPING HELP YOU NEED
Apparatus Contractor Services, LLC provides affordable bookkeeping, payroll, and CFO services exclusively to construction-industry businesses. Let us give you the precision bookkeeping foundation you need to grow a remarkably profitable construction business. LEARN MORE
