Accrued Expenses (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jul. 31, 2014	Apr. 30, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Jul. 31, 2013	Apr. 30, 2013	Oct. 31, 2012
Accrued expenses
Land, land development and construction	$ 130,304		$ 152,674
Compensation and employee benefits	109,753		111,561
Insurance and litigation	98,503		89,104
Warranty	54,227	52,579	43,819	42,067	41,109	41,706
Interest	38,406		25,675
Due to Affiliate	2,564		3,804
Other	102,913		96,350
Accrued expenses, Total	$ 536,670		$ 522,987