Accrued Expenses (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jul. 31, 2013	Apr. 30, 2013	Oct. 31, 2012	Jul. 31, 2012	Apr. 30, 2012	Oct. 31, 2011
Accrued expenses
Land, land development and construction	$ 151,932		$ 126,866
Compensation and employee benefits	101,661		111,243
Insurance and litigation	97,585		101,908
Warranty	42,067	41,109	41,706	42,260	42,997	42,474
Interest	43,891		28,204
Other	81,311		66,423
Accrued expenses, Total	$ 518,447		$ 476,350