Key Accounting Policies for Real Estate Business


1️⃣ Revenue Recognition (IFRS 15 / IFRS 16)

• Sale of units: Revenue recognised on handover (transfer of control).

• For certain off-plan projects, revenue can be recognised over-time if customer controls the asset as it’s built.

• Lease income: Straight-line over lease term under IFRS 16.


2️⃣ Development Properties – Inventory (IAS 2)

• Land + construction meant for sale = inventory.

• Valued at lower of cost or NRV (net selling value).

• Cost includes land value, construction cost, project overheads, design fees, and capitalised borrowing cost.


3️⃣ Investment Property (IAS 40)

• Properties held for rental income or value appreciation.

• Company chooses between:

– Fair value model: Gains/losses directly in P&L.

– Cost model: Depreciated like PPE.

• Transfers allowed if purpose of property changes (e.g., leasing → selling).


4️⃣ Borrowing Costs (IAS 23)

• Interest on loans for long-term projects must be capitalised.

• Begin capitalisation when development starts; stop when asset is ready for use/sale.


5️⃣ Property, Plant & Equipment (IAS 16)

• Showrooms, offices, staff accommodations, site equipment.

• Depreciated over useful life.

• Major improvements are capitalised; repairs are expensed.


6️⃣ Impairment Testing (IAS 36)

• Required for inventory (if NRV falls), investment property (cost model), and PPE.

• Indicators: slow sales, cost overruns, market decline, project delays.


7️⃣ Provisions & Contingencies (IAS 37)

• Onerous contracts (cost > benefits).

• Warranties for post-handover defects.

• Legal disputes and land-related cases.


8️⃣ Financial Instruments (IFRS 9)

• Trade receivables, retention money, long-term advances.

• ECL (Expected Credit Loss) model must be applied even if receivables look secure.


9️⃣ Consolidation & Joint Ventures (IFRS 10 / IFRS 11)

• Many real estate developers use SPVs.

• Must assess:

– Control → full consolidation

– Joint control → joint venture or joint operation


🔟 Segment Reporting (IFRS 8)

• Real estate companies report by product lines such as:

– Residential units

– Commercial leasing

– Retail spaces

– Hospitality

• Helps stakeholders see which segment performs best.

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