Investments In Unconsolidated Joint Ventures (Details) (USD $) In Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2011	Aug. 31, 2010	Aug. 31, 2011	Aug. 31, 2010	Nov. 30, 2010
Statements of operations of unconsolidated joint ventures
Revenues	$ 0	$ 10,376	$ 230	$ 110,455
Construction and land costs	0	(9,194)	(201)	(109,929)
Other income (expense) net	101	(5,336)	(4,505)	(14,173)
Income (loss)	101	(4,154)	(4,476)	(13,647)
Assets
Cash	9,672		9,672		14,947
Receivable	33		33		147,025
Inventories	182,983		182,983		575,632
Other assets	261		261		51,755
Total assets	192,949		192,949		789,359
Liabilities and equity
Accounts payable and other liabilities	3,707		3,707		113,478
Mortgages and notes payable	0		0		327,856
Equity	189,242		189,242		348,025
Total liabilities and equity	$ 192,949		$ 192,949		$ 789,359