SYDNEY - [AAP] Domain Holdings' (ASX: DHG) first-half underlying profit has slipped 8.1 per cent to $24.7 million, on a pro forma basis, dragged down by a spike in company costs.

The real estate business has reported a statutory loss of $3.4 million for the six months to December 24 due to costs relating to its spin-off from Fairfax Media, and significant items after tax totalling $2.8 million.

But Domain says revenue in the six months had risen 62.3 per cent to $112.7 million, from $69.4 million a year ago.

Executive chairman Nick Falloon said the company had reported a "pleasing" first result since its separation from Fairfax in November after shareholders overwhelmingly voted in favour of the spin-off.

Under the deal, Fairfax has retained a 60 per cent interest in Domain and shareholders hold the remaining 40 per cent.

"It demonstrates the strength of Domain as a separately listed company and the ongoing success of its strategy," Mr Falloon said in a statement on Monday.

"The business is in great shape with strong underlying momentum."

Pro forma underlying revenue rose 12.5 per cent to $183.3 million and earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortisation grew 8.7 per cent to $56.8 million.

Mr Falloon also said the search for a new chief executive is continuing after Antony Catalano left the role in January--only two months after the real estate classifieds business listed on the Australian Securities Exchange.

"We expect the new leader to have execution discipline and relevant experience in driving a growth business and building a great culture," Mr Falloon said.

"The calibre of the candidates that we are attracting is truly impressive, befitting Domain's position as a leading real estate media and technology business."

Domain expects 2018 full-year pro forma costs to increase around 12 to 13 per cent from 2017's pro forma $216 million.

COMPANY COSTS WEIGH ON DOMAIN:

* Underlying pro forma profit down 8.1pc to $24.7m

* Statutory loss of $3.4m

* Revenue up 62.3pc to $112.7m

* Partially franked interim dividend of four cents

 

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