Commitments and Contingent Liabilities (Details Textual) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011 Lot	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Commitments and Contingent Liabilities (Textual) [Abstract]
Rent expense under operating leases	$ 33,607	$ 33,172	$ 36,699
Maximum range of deposits required under the purchase agreements	10.00%
Term of business plan	5 years
Contingent forfeitable deposits with land developers	47,525
Number of finished building lots	92
Purchase price of finished lots committed to purchase under specific performance obligations	8,500
Contingent obligations under bond or letter of credit arrangements	46,300
Contingent obligation under letters of credit arrangements	$ 10,623