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, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract]
Single-family lots, land and land development costs (a)	$ 49,987	$ 73,069
Other assets	2,917	2,972
Total assets	52,904	76,041
Notes payable	12,153	8,022
Other liabilities	2,887	4,041
Total liabilities	15,040	12,063
Company’s equity (a)	18,728	32,103
Other equity	19,136	31,875
Total partners’ equity	37,864	63,978
Total liabilities and partners’ equity	52,904	76,041
Reduction of impairment relating to unconsolidated joint ventures	5,992	10,362
Company's investment in joint development or similar agreements	$ 15,033	$ 13,525