Variable Interest Entities and Joint Ventures (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Total risk related to lot options
Contract land deposits	$ 209,390	$ 202,263
Contract land deposit reserve	(69,062)	(70,333)
Contract land deposits, net	140,328	131,930
Contingent obligations in the form of letters of credit	3,390	3,228
Contingent specific performance obligations	8,873	8,526
Total risk of loss	$ 152,591	$ 143,684