Note 7 - Reinsurance Reinsurance Premiums Written and Earned (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended			9 Months Ended
		Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016		Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2016
Premiums Earned, Net [Abstract]
Net premiums earned-insurance		$ 236,702	$ 238,149		$ 687,598	$ 688,184
Mortgage Insurance Segment
Premiums Written, Net [Abstract]
Direct Premiums Written		265,927	261,456		766,219	748,110
Ceded Premiums Written	[1]	(18,117)	(20,457)		(52,437)	(248,448)
Net premiums written	[2]	247,810	240,999	[3]	713,782	499,662	[3]
Premiums Earned, Net [Abstract]
Direct Premiums Earned		250,541	258,074		729,832	747,342
Assumed Premiums Earned		7	9		21	27
Ceded Premiums Earned	[1]	(13,846)	(19,934)		(42,255)	(59,185)
Net premiums earned-insurance		$ 236,702	$ 238,149	[3]	$ 687,598	$ 688,184	[3]

[1] Net of profit commission.

[2] Net of ceded premiums written under the QSR Transactions and the Single Premium QSR Transaction. See Note 7 for additional information.

[3] Reflects changes made during the fourth quarter of 2016 to align our segment reporting structure concurrent with changes in personnel reporting lines and management oversight related to contract underwriting performed on behalf of third parties. Revenue and expenses for this business are now reflected in the Services segment. As a result, Services revenue, cost of services and other operating expenses have increased, with offsetting reductions in Mortgage Insurance other income and other operating expenses.