Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies (Schedule of the Company's Interests in Land Option Agreements) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands	Jun. 30, 2011		Dec. 31, 2010
Deposits and pre-acquisition costs	$ 53,803		$ 95,063
Total purchase price	690,948		709,468
Land under Purchase Options, Recorded	30,037		50,781
Other Land Option Agreements [Member]
Deposits and pre-acquisition costs	22,640		42,970
Total purchase price	365,176		455,481
Land under Purchase Options, Recorded	7,919	[1]	8,380	[1]
Consolidated VIEs [Member]
Deposits and pre-acquisition costs	10,116		41,813
Total purchase price	29,882		51,773
Land under Purchase Options, Recorded	22,118	[2]	42,401	[2]
Unconsolidated VIEs [Member]
Deposits and pre-acquisition costs	21,047		10,280
Total purchase price	$ 295,890		$ 202,214

[1] Represents the remaining purchase price for land option agreements consolidated pursuant to ASC 470-40 under which the land seller is not considered a variable interest entity.

[2] Represents the remaining purchase price for land option agreements consolidated pursuant to ASC 810 or ASC 470-40 under which the land seller is considered a variable interest entity.