SEGMENTS (Details 4) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Reconciliation of Segment Basis Revenues to GAAP Revenues
Total revenues	$ 133,953	$ 103,514	$ 147,052	$ 90,091	$ 108,367	$ 94,815	$ 93,939	$ 79,765	$ 474,610	$ 376,886	$ 275,689
Less: The Woodlands Partnerships revenues											(81,781)
Operating segment
Reconciliation of Segment Basis Revenues to GAAP Revenues
Total revenues									474,610	376,886	357,470
Master Planned Communities | Operating segment
Reconciliation of Segment Basis Revenues to GAAP Revenues
Total revenues									274,770	207,039	184,037
Operating Assets | Operating segment
Reconciliation of Segment Basis Revenues to GAAP Revenues
Total revenues									160,586	165,091	148,573
Strategic Developments | Operating segment
Reconciliation of Segment Basis Revenues to GAAP Revenues
Total revenues									$ 39,254	$ 4,756	$ 24,860