Variable Interest Entities and Joint Ventures (Details Textual) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2012 Lot JointVenture	Dec. 31, 2011 Lot
Variable Interest Entities and Joint Ventures (Textual) [Abstract]
Maximum range of deposits required under the purchase agreements	10.00%
Power of developer's equity holders to direct operating activities of the development entity	100.00%
Lots controlled by NVR	48,400	48,200
Cash deposited related to lots	$ 209,400	$ 202,300
Letters of credit related to lots	3,400	3,200
Finished lots committed to purchase under specific performance obligations	100	92
Total lots not under contract with NVR under the joint venture	2,700
Aggregate investment	87,700
Investments in unconsolidated Joint Ventures	$ 73,700
Number of Joint Ventures	4
Expected production of finished lots	6,600
Number of Joint Ventures NVR is Not Primary Beneficiary	3