Note 21 - Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Detail) - Assets Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2012	Oct. 31, 2011	Oct. 31, 2010
Pre-Impairment Amount	$ 38,100	$ 252,000	$ 253,400
Total Losses	(9,800)	(77,500)	(122,500)
Sold and Unsold Homes and Lots Under Development [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Pre-Impairment Amount	11,065	167,568
Total Losses	(3,234)	(50,999)
Fair Value	7,831	116,569
Land and Land Options Held for Future Development or Sale [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Pre-Impairment Amount	26,998	84,384
Total Losses	(6,589)	(26,483)
Fair Value	$ 20,409	$ 57,901