Accrued Expenses (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Apr. 30, 2014	Jan. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Apr. 30, 2013	Jan. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2012
Accrued expenses
Land, land development and construction	$ 136,781		$ 152,674
Compensation and employee benefits	111,664		111,561
Insurance and litigation	92,814		89,104
Warranty	52,579	42,688	43,819	41,109	41,241	41,706
Interest	37,444		25,675
Due to Affiliate	4,259		3,804
Other	104,132		96,350
Accrued expenses, Total	$ 539,673		$ 522,987