Investments in Unconsolidated Joint Ventures (Financial Information for Unconsolidated Joint Ventures) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2012	Aug. 31, 2011	Aug. 31, 2012	Aug. 31, 2011	Nov. 30, 2011
Statements of operations of unconsolidated joint venture
Revenues	$ 27,859	$ 0	$ 27,859	$ 230
Construction and land costs	(19,309)	0	(19,303)	(201)
Other income (expenses), net	(442)	101	(1,189)	(4,505)
Income (loss)	8,108	101	7,367	(4,476)
Assets
Cash	29,057		29,057		8,923
Receivables	8,034		8,034		19,503
Inventories	347,460		347,460		368,306
Other assets	872		872		151
Total assets	385,423		385,423		396,883
Liabilities and equity
Accounts payable and other liabilities	86,927		86,927		96,981
Equity	298,496		298,496		299,902
Total liabilities and equity	$ 385,423		$ 385,423		$ 396,883