Note 22 - Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Details) - Assets Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2012
Note 22 - Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Details) - Assets Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Total Losses	$ (1,200)	$ (2,400)	$ (9,800)
Sold and Unsold Homes and Lots Under Development [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member]
Note 22 - Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Details) - Assets Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Pre-Impairment Amount	3,841	7,302
Total Losses	(900)	(2,249)
Fair Value	2,941	5,053
Land and Land Options Held for Future Development or Sale [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member]
Note 22 - Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Details) - Assets Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Pre-Impairment Amount	572	924
Total Losses	(278)	(136)
Fair Value	$ 294	$ 788