Note 3 - Segment Reporting (Details) - Reconciliation of Pretax Operating Income from Segments to Consolidated (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Homebuilding
Income before income taxes	$ 129,825	$ 61,115	$ (107,472)
Reportable Geographical Components [Member] | West [Member]
Homebuilding
Income before income taxes	65,672	27,076	(16,889)
Reportable Geographical Components [Member] | Mountain [Member]
Homebuilding
Income before income taxes	52,392	24,302	1,397
Reportable Geographical Components [Member] | East [Member]
Homebuilding
Income before income taxes	19,590	11,011	(7,195)
Reportable Geographical Components [Member] | Corporate Segment [Member]
Homebuilding
Income before income taxes	(37,331)	(29,772)	(87,941)
Reportable Geographical Components [Member] | Homebuilding [Member]
Homebuilding
Income before income taxes	100,323	32,617	(110,628)
Reportable Geographical Components [Member] | Mortgage Operations [Member]
Homebuilding
Income before income taxes	21,608	23,939	394
Reportable Geographical Components [Member] | Other Financial Services [Member]
Homebuilding
Income before income taxes	7,894	4,559	2,762
Homebuilding [Member]
Homebuilding
Income before income taxes	100,323	32,617	(110,628)
Financial Services [Member]
Homebuilding
Income before income taxes	$ 29,502	$ 28,498	$ 3,156