Note 11 - Combined Balance Sheets for Unconsolidated Land Development and Homebuilding Joint Ventures (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Assets:
Cash	$ 35,737	$ 34,893
Inventories	517,272	510,502
Other assets	14,264	14,540
Total assets	567,273	559,935
Liabilities and Equity:
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	18,447	26,571
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Non-recourse Debt	31,558	33,704
CalAtlantic equity	146,624	130,750
Other members' equity	370,644	368,910
Total liabilities and equity	567,273	559,935
Investments in unconsolidated joint ventures reflected in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets	$ 137,591	$ 132,763