Accrued Expenses (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jul. 31, 2012	Apr. 30, 2012	Oct. 31, 2011	Jul. 31, 2011	Apr. 30, 2011	Oct. 31, 2010
Accrued expenses
Land, land development and construction	$ 109,612		$ 109,574
Compensation and employee benefits	94,600		96,037
Insurance and litigation	114,542		130,714
Commitments to unconsolidated entities	2,101		60,205
Warranty	42,260	42,997	42,474	44,190	46,321	45,835
Interest	39,256		25,968
Other	62,351		56,079
Accrued expenses, Total	$ 464,722		$ 521,051