Note 17 - Disclosures about Fair Value (Details) - Carrying Values and Estimated Fair Value of Other Financial Instruments (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Financial Services [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Note 17 - Disclosures about Fair Value (Details) - Carrying Values and Estimated Fair Value of Other Financial Instruments [Line Items]
Mortgage loans held for investment, net	$ 11,264	$ 9,923
Mortgage loans held for investment, net	11,264	9,923
Financial Services [Member]
Note 17 - Disclosures about Fair Value (Details) - Carrying Values and Estimated Fair Value of Other Financial Instruments [Line Items]
Mortgage loans held for investment, net	11,264	9,923
Homebuilding [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Note 17 - Disclosures about Fair Value (Details) - Carrying Values and Estimated Fair Value of Other Financial Instruments [Line Items]
Senior notes payable, net	1,531,829	1,530,502
Senior notes payable, net	1,802,986	1,803,202
Homebuilding [Member]
Note 17 - Disclosures about Fair Value (Details) - Carrying Values and Estimated Fair Value of Other Financial Instruments [Line Items]
Senior notes payable, net	$ 1,531,829	$ 1,530,502