Note 3 - Segment Reporting (Detail) - Segment Financial Information Relating to Homebuilding Assets and Investments in Unconsolidated Joint Ventures (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Assets	$ 2,242,321	$ 2,200,383
Investments in unconsolidated joint ventures	85,465	81,807
Homebuilding: California [Member]
Assets	1,059,857	985,560
Investments in unconsolidated joint ventures	81,128	76,999
Homebuilding: Southwest [Member]
Assets	378,258	355,060
Investments in unconsolidated joint ventures	2,758	2,770
Homebuilding: Southeast [Member]
Assets	368,622	294,996
Investments in unconsolidated joint ventures	1,579	2,038
Homebuilding: Corporate [Member]
Assets	344,714	473,971
Homebuilding [Member]
Assets	2,151,451	2,109,587
Investments in unconsolidated joint ventures	$ 85,465	$ 81,807