Beazer Orders Fall 24 Percent in First Quarter

Atlanta, GA, January 24, 2008--Beazer Homes USA Inc.'s said orders fell 29 percent in the first quarter and more potential buyers abandoned contracts as the housing market continued to decline.

Beazer said it booked orders of 1,260 in the quarter ended Dec. 31. Home closings fell 24 percent to 2,010 and cancellations rose to 46 percent from 43 percent.

Beazersaid it finished the year with $325 million in cash on hand.