Segment Information Narrative (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016 USD ($) segment	Dec. 31, 2015 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014 USD ($)
Segment Reporting Information
Home sale revenues	$ 7,451,315	$ 5,792,675	$ 5,662,171
Number of reportable segments | segment	6
Detached single-family homes [Member]
Segment Reporting Information
Home sale revenues	$ 6,500,000	5,000,000	4,800,000
Attached homes [Member]
Segment Reporting Information
Home sale revenues	$ 996,400	$ 841,500	$ 885,800