Accrued Expenses (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Jan. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2012
Accrued expenses
Land, land development and construction	$ 135,523	$ 152,674
Compensation and employee benefits	107,080	111,561
Insurance and litigation	91,820	89,104
Warranty	42,688	43,819	41,241	41,706
Interest	46,500	25,675
Due to Affiliate	4,260	3,804
Other	88,226	96,350
Accrued expenses, Total	$ 516,097	$ 522,987