Business Segments Business Segments - Valuation Adjustments (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Sep. 30, 2011	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used [Line Items]
Total Of Valuation Adjustments And Write Offs	$ 3,758	$ 22,967	$ 13,158
Midwest Homebuilding [Member]
Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used [Line Items]
Total Of Valuation Adjustments And Write Offs	3,538	13,898	3,863	13,898
Impairment Charges Reduction of Net Income				3,500	13,900	3,900
Southern Homebuilding [Member]
Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used [Line Items]
Total Of Valuation Adjustments And Write Offs	110	6,792	4,534	6,792
Impairment Charges Reduction of Net Income				100	6,800	4,500
Mid-Atlantic Homebuilding [Member]
Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used [Line Items]
Total Of Valuation Adjustments And Write Offs	110	2,277	4,761	2,277
Impairment Charges Reduction of Net Income				$ 100	$ 2,277	$ 4,761