Investment in Unconsolidated Joint Ventures Investment in Unconsolidated Joint Ventures Balance Sheet Information (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract]
Single-family lots, land and land development costs (a)	$ 73,069	$ 60,086
Other assets	2,972	(232)
Total assets	76,041	59,853
Notes payable	8,022	10,436
Other liabilities	4,041	324
Total liabilities	12,063	10,760
Company’s equity (a)	32,103	24,265
Other equity	31,875	24,829
Total partners’ equity	63,978	49,093
Total liabilities and partners’ equity	76,041	59,853
Reduction of impairment relating to unconsolidated joint ventures	10,362	12,532
Company's investment in joint development or similar agreements	$ 13,525