Supplemental Disclosure to Condensed Statements of Cash Flows (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	6 Months Ended
	Apr. 30, 2014	Apr. 30, 2013	Apr. 30, 2014 Shapell [Member]
Business Combination, recognized identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed, assets excluding cash
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Liabilities
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired	1,489,116		1,489,116
Cash flow information:
Interest Capitalized Net of Amounts Paid	3,798
Interest Paid, Net		8,947
Income tax payment	30,968	1,107
Income tax refunds		1,156
Non-cash activity:
Cost of inventory acquired through seller financing municipal bonds or recorded due to VIE criteria, net	71,662	26,566
Financed portion of land sale		7,200
Reduction in inventory, share of equity earnings, land purchase from JV	1,229	1,327
Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Amendments	77	519
Non cash increase in accrued expenses related to RSU pay out	4,972	2,942
Increase (reduction) of investments in unconsolidated entities due to increase/reduction in letters of credit or accrued liabilities		49
Transfer of inventory to investment in unconsolidated entities	700	27,631
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, before Tax	365	23
Change in fair value of debt guarantees	428	1,291
Miscellaneous increases (decreases) to investments in unconsolidated entities	$ (965)	$ 64