Note 22 - Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Details) - Assets Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Apr. 30, 2014	Apr. 30, 2013	Apr. 30, 2014	Apr. 30, 2013
Note 22 - Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Details) - Assets Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total Losses	$ (100)	$ (900)	$ (100)	$ (1,500)
Sold and Unsold Homes and Lots Under Development [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Note 22 - Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Details) - Assets Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Pre-Impairment Amount		2,348		5,243
Total Losses		(910)		(1,478)
Fair Value		1,438		3,765
Land and Land Options Held for Future Development or Sale [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Note 22 - Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Details) - Assets Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Pre-Impairment Amount	236		236	485
Total Losses	(82)		(82)	(19)
Fair Value	$ 154		$ 154	$ 466