Accrued Expenses (Details 1) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2012	Oct. 31, 2011	Oct. 31, 2010
Changes in the warranty accrual
Balance, beginning of year	$ 42,474	$ 45,835	$ 53,937
Additions - homes closed during the year	10,560	8,809	9,147
Addition - liabilities acquired	731
Increase (decrease) to accruals for homes closed in prior periods	479	(828)	(4,684)
Charges incurred	(12,538)	(11,342)	(12,565)
Balance, end of year	$ 41,706	$ 42,474	$ 45,835