Loss Per Share (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 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%
Cancellation of common stock (in shares)	21,340		26,412
Issuance of common stock (in shares)	64,000	0	71,160	66,538
Numerator: [Abstract]
Basic and diluted loss per share - net loss attributable to AV Homes	$ (11,583)	$ (121,561)	$ (31,379)	$ (148,184)
Denominator: [Abstract]
Basic and diluted weighted average shares outstanding (in shares)	12,574,002	12,450,961	12,542,605	12,444,422