Variable Interest Entities and Joint Ventures - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2012 Lot Jointventures	Dec. 31, 2011 Lot
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	50,000	48,200
Cash deposited related to lots	$ 243,200	$ 202,300
Letters of credit related to lots	2,800	3,200
Aggregate investment	86,700
Number of Joint Ventures	4
Expected production of finished lots	7,500
Total lots not under contract with NVR under the joint venture	2,800
Number of Joint Ventures NVR is Not Primary Beneficiary	3
Investments in unconsolidated Joint Ventures	$ 72,700