Estimated Development Liability for Sold Land (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011	Dec. 31, 2011
Estimated Development Liability for Sold Land [Abstract]
Number of estimated homes the estimated liability covers	8,000		8,000
Gross estimated unexpended costs	$ 35,902		$ 35,902		$ 37,106
Costs related to unsold homesites	(2,905)		(2,905)		(3,062)
Estimated development liability for sold land	32,997		32,997		34,044
Charges related to estimated liability for sold land	$ 476	$ 476	$ 120	$ 0