Investments in Unconsolidated Joint Ventures (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2011	Nov. 30, 2010	Nov. 30, 2009
Statements of operations of unconsolidated joint ventures
Revenues	$ 230	$ 122,200	$ 60,790
Construction and land costs	(54)	(120,010)	(117,255)
Other expense, net	(4,506)	(19,362)	(46,432)
Loss	(4,330)	(17,172)	(102,897)
Assets
Cash	8,923	14,947
Receivable	19,503	147,025
Inventories	368,306	575,632
Other assets	151	51,755
Total assets	396,883	789,359
Liabilities and equity
Accounts payable and other liabilities	96,981	113,478
Mortgages and notes payable	0	327,856
Equity	299,902	348,025
Total liabilities and equity	$ 396,883	$ 789,359