Diluted earnings per share for the quarter increased 15% to 63 cents from 55 cents in the 2002 quarter. Earnings per share climbed 36% to $1.77 last year, compared with $1.30 in 2002. In addition, 2003 revenue increased 36% to $285.5 million, compared with $209.4 million in 2002. Fourth-quarter revenue grew 20% to $99 million, compared with $82.7 million in the 2002 fourth quarter.

"Levitt has delivered strong growth, exceptional performance and an all-time high backlog," according to Alan B. Levan, chairman and CEO of Levitt Corp.

Levitt Corp. is locally based BankAtlantic Bancorp Inc.'s former real estate development subsidiary, which spun off from the company became its own publicly traded company. Levitt Corp. is the parent of Levitt Commercial, Levitt and Sons and Core Communities. Levitt Commercial focuses on development, redevelopment and joint venture opportunities with industrial and retail properties. Levitt and Sons develops single-family and multifamily homes for active adults and families in the state. Core Communities develops master-planned communities in Florida, as well. Also, Levitt Corp. has about a 38% ownership in Bluegreen Corp., which acquires, develops, markets and sells drive-to vacation resorts and other properties.