Loss Per Share (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2011	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2011	Oct. 13, 2008
Loss Per Share [Abstract]
Interest rate on notes excluded from earnings per share calculation (in hundredths)	7.50%	4.50%	7.50%	4.50%	4.50%
Issuance of common stock (in shares)	7,160	57,267	7,160	57,267
Cancellation of common stock (in shares)	5,072		5,072
Numerator: [Abstract]
Basic and diluted loss per share - net loss attributable to AV Homes	$ (11,345)	$ (16,526)	$ (19,796)	$ (26,623)
Denominator: [Abstract]
Basic and diluted weighted average shares outstanding	12,523,843	12,442,616	12,522,663	12,441,098