Accrued Expenses (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Apr. 30, 2012	Jan. 31, 2012	Oct. 31, 2011	Apr. 30, 2011	Jan. 31, 2011	Oct. 31, 2010
Accrued expenses
Land, land development and construction	$ 103,501		$ 109,574
Compensation and employee benefits	97,596		96,037
Insurance and litigation	120,309		130,714
Commitments to unconsolidated entities	2,077		60,205
Warranty	42,997	43,109	42,474	46,321	45,928	45,835
Interest	28,976		25,968
Other	61,818		56,079
Accrued expenses, Total	$ 457,274		$ 521,051