Segment Information Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended			9 Months Ended
		Sep. 30, 2015		Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Segment Reporting Information
Adjustment to self insurance reserves		$ (5,700)			$ (32,600)	$ 84,500
Loss on debt retirements		0		$ 0	0	8,584
Loss Contingency Accrual, Period Increase (Decrease)						(18,600)
Home Office Relocation [Member]
Segment Reporting Information
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost				$ 1,900		$ 7,100
Applecross v. Pulte Homes of PA, et al | Northeast
Segment Reporting Information
Litigation Settlement, Expense	[2]	$ 20,000	[1]		$ 20,000

[1] Miscellaneous, net includes a charge of $20.0 million resulting from the Applecross matter for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2015

[2] Northeast includes a charge of $20.0 million resulting from the Applecross matter for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2015