Accrued Expenses (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Apr. 30, 2013	Jan. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2012	Apr. 30, 2012	Jan. 31, 2012	Oct. 31, 2011
Accrued expenses
Land, land development and construction	$ 132,718		$ 126,866
Compensation and employee benefits	97,072		111,243
Insurance and litigation	96,443		101,908
Warranty	41,109	41,241	41,706	42,997	43,109	42,474
Interest	26,821		28,204
Other	75,070		66,423
Accrued expenses, Total	$ 469,233		$ 476,350