Note 7 - Investments in Unconsolidated Land Development and Homebuilding Joint Ventures - Combined Balance Sheets for Unconsolidated Joint Ventures (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Assets:
Cash	$ 23,785	$ 34,893
Inventories	541,191	510,502
Other assets	26,292	14,540
Total assets	591,268	559,935
Liabilities and Equity:
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	28,947	26,571
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Non-recourse Debt	31,007	33,704
CalAtlantic equity	140,387	130,750
Other members' equity	390,927	368,910
Total liabilities and equity	591,268	559,935
Investments in unconsolidated joint ventures reflected in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets	$ 127,127	$ 132,763