BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Policies)	12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2012
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
BASIS OF PRESENTATION	BASIS OF PRESENTATION—The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Kennedy Wilson and its wholly owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. In addition, Kennedy Wilson evaluates its relationships with other entities to identify whether they are variable interest entities (VIE) as defined by FASB Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) Subtopic 810 – Consolidation and to assess whether it is the primary beneficiary of such entities. In determining whether Kennedy Wilson is the primary beneficiary of a VIE, qualitative and quantitative factors are considered, including, but not limited to: the amount and characteristics of Kennedy-Wilson's investment; the obligation or likelihood for Kennedy Wilson to provide financial support; Kennedy Wilson's ability to control or significantly influence key decisions for the VIE; and the similarity with and significance to the business activities of Kennedy Wilson. Significant judgments related to these determinations include estimates about the future fair values and performance of real estate held by these VIEs and general market conditions. As of December 31, 2012, Kennedy-Wilson has determined that it does not have any VIEs except as discussed in the joint ventures policy below.
USE OF ESTIMATES	USE OF ESTIMATES—The preparation of the accompanying consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) requires management to make estimates and assumptions about future events. These estimates and the underlying assumptions affect the amounts of assets and liabilities reported, disclosure about contingent assets and liabilities, and reported amounts of revenues and expenses. Management evaluates its estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis using historical experience and other factors, including the current economic environment, which management believes to be reasonable under the circumstances. Management adjusts such estimates and assumptions when facts and circumstances dictate. The after-effects of the recent global financial crisis, including highly volatile credit, equity and foreign currency markets and a slow and uneven global economic recovery, have increased the uncertainty inherent in such estimates and assumptions. As future events and their effects cannot be determined with precision, actual results could differ significantly from these estimates. Changes in those estimates will be reflected in the financial statements in future periods.
REVENUE RECOGNITION	REVENUE RECOGNITION—Revenue primarily consists of management fees, performance fees, commission revenue, rental income and sales of real estate. Management fees are primarily comprised of property management fees and base asset management fees. Property management fees are earned for managing the operations of real estate assets and are generally based on a fixed percentage of the revenues generated from the respective real estate assets. Base asset management fees are earned from limited partners of funds Kennedy-Wilson sponsors and are generally based on a fixed percentage of committed capital or net asset value. These fees are recognized as revenue ratably over the period that the respective services are performed. Performance fees or carried interest are allocated to the general partner, special limited partner or asset manager of Kennedy Wilson's real estate funds and loan pool participations based on the cumulative performance of the fund and loan pools and are subject to preferred return thresholds of the limited partners and participants. At the end of each reporting period, Kennedy Wilson calculates the performance fee that would be due as if the fair value of the underlying investments were realized as of such date, irrespective of whether such amounts have been realized. As the fair value of underlying investments varies between reporting periods, it is necessary to make adjustments to amounts recorded as performance fees to reflect either (a) positive performance resulting in an increase in the performance fee allocated to the general partner or asset manager or (b) negative performance that would cause the amount due to Kennedy-Wilson to be less than the amount previously recognized as revenue, resulting in a negative adjustment to performance fees allocated to the general partner or asset manager. Substantially all of the performance fees are recognized in management and leasing fees and substantially all of the carried interest is recognized in equity in joint venture income in our consolidated statements of operations. Total performances fees recognized to date through December 31, 2012 that may be reversed in future periods if there is negative fund performance totaled $12.8 million. Performance fees accrued as of December 31, 2012 and 2011 were $8.6 million and $4.2 million, respectively, and are included in accounts receivable—related parties in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet. Commissions primarily consist of acquisition fees, auction and real estate sales commissions and leasing commissions. Acquisition fees are earned for identifying and closing investments on behalf of investors and are based on a fixed percentage of the acquisition price. Acquisition fees are recognized upon the successful completion of an acquisition after all required services have been performed. In the case of auction and real estate sales commissions, the revenue is generally recognized when escrow closes. In accordance with the guidelines established for Reporting Revenue Gross as a Principal versus Net as an Agent in the ASC Subtopic 605-45, Kennedy Wilson records commission revenues and expenses on a gross basis. Of the criteria listed in the Subtopic 605-45, Kennedy Wilson is the primary obligor in the transaction, does not have inventory risk, performs all or part of the service, has credit risk, and has wide latitude in establishing the price of services rendered and discretion in selection of agents and determination of service specifications. Leasing fees that are payable upon tenant occupancy, payment of rent or other events beyond Kennedy Wilson's control are recognized upon the occurrence of such events. Rental income from operating leases is generally recognized on a straight-line basis over the terms of the leases. Sales of real estate are recognized at the close of escrow when title to the real property passes to the buyer and there is no continuing involvement in the real property. Kennedy Wilson follows the requirements for profit recognition as set forth by the Sale of Real Estate ASC Subtopic 360-20.
REAL ESTATE ACQUISITIONS	REAL ESTATE ACQUISITIONS—When acquiring a property, the purchase price of acquired properties is recorded to land, buildings and building improvements and intangible lease value (value of above-market and below-market leases, acquired in-place lease values, and tenant relationships, if any) based on their respective estimated fair values in accordance with Business Combinations ASC Subtopics 805-10. Acquisition-related costs are expensed as incurred. The valuations of real estate are based on management estimates of the real estate assets using income and market approaches. The indebtedness securing the real estate are valued, in part, based on third party valuations and management estimates also using an income approach.
INVESTMENTS IN JOINT VENTURES	INVESTMENTS IN JOINT VENTURES—Kennedy Wilson has a number of joint venture interests, that were formed to acquire, manage, and/or sell real estate and invest in loan pools and discounted loan portfolios. Investments in joint ventures which Kennedy Wilson does not control are accounted for under the equity method of accounting as Kennedy Wilson can exercise significant influence, but does not have the ability to control the joint venture. An investment in a joint venture is recorded at its initial investment and is increased or decreased by Kennedy Wilson’s share of income or loss, plus additional contributions and less distributions. A decline in the value of an investments in a joint venture that is other than temporary is recognized when evidence indicates that such a decline has occurred in accordance with Equity Method Investments ASC Subtopic 323-10. As of December 31, 2012, Kennedy Wilson also had investments in five joint venture investments which are VIEs in which Kennedy Wilson is not the primary beneficiary and therefore accounts for them under the equity method as well. Profits on the sale of real estate held by joint ventures in which Kennedy Wilson has continuing involvement are deferred until such time that the continuing involvement has been concluded and all the risks and rewards of ownership have passed to the buyer. Profit on sales to joint ventures in which Kennedy Wilson retains an equity ownership interest results in partial sales treatment in accordance with Sale of Real Estate ASC Subtopic 360-20, thus deferring a portion of the gain as a result of Kennedy Wilson’s continuing ownership percentage in the joint ventures. Kennedy Wilson has three investments in joint ventures, KW Property Fund III, L.P. (KW Fund III), Kennedy Wilson Real Estate Fund IV, L.P. (Fund IV) and SG KW Venture I, LLC (the Funds) that are investment companies under the Investment Companies ASC Subtopic 946-10. Thus, the Funds reflect their investments at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses resulting from changes in fair value reflected in their earnings. Kennedy Wilson has retained the specialized accounting for the Funds pursuant to Retention of Specialized Accounting for Investments in Consolidation ASC Subtopic 810-10 in recording its equity in joint venture income from the Funds. Additionally, Kennedy Wilson elected the fair value option for two investments in joint venture entities that were acquired during 2008. Kennedy-Wilson elected to record these investments at fair value to more accurately reflect the timing of the value created in the underlying investments and report those results in current operations.
INVESTMENTS IN LOAN POOL PARTICIPATIONS AND NOTES RECEIVABLE	INVESTMENTS IN LOAN POOL PARTICIPATIONS AND NOTES RECEIVABLE—Interest income from investments in loan pool participations and note receivable are recognized on a level yield basis under the provisions of Loans and Debt Securities Acquired with Deteriorated Credit Quality ASC Subtopic 310-30, where a level yield model is utilized to determine a yield rate which, based upon projected future cash flows, accretes interest income over the estimated holding period. In the event that the present value of those future cash flows is less than net book value, a loss would be immediately recorded. When the future cash flows of a note cannot be reasonably estimated, cash payments are applied to the cost basis of the note until it is fully recovered before any interest income is recognized. Interest income from investments in notes receivable acquired at a discount are recognized using the effective interest method. Interest income from investments in notes receivable which the Company originates are recognized at the stated interest rate.
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS	FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS—Kennedy Wilson accounts for fair value measurements of financial assets and financial liabilities and for fair value measurements of nonfinancial items that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the financial statements on a recurring basis under the provisions of Fair Value Measurements ASC Subtopic 820-10. Subtopic 820-10 defines fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. When estimating fair value in the absence of an orderly transaction between market participants, valuations of real estate are based on management estimates of the real estate assets using income and market approaches. The indebtedness securing the real estate and the investments in debt securities are valued, in part, based on third party valuations and management estimates also using an income approach.
GOODWILL	GOODWILL—Goodwill results from the difference between the purchase price and the fair value of net assets acquired based upon the purchase method of accounting for business combinations. In accordance with Accounting for Goodwill ASC Subtopic 350-20, goodwill is reviewed for impairment on an annual basis. In testing for impairment, goodwill is assigned to the reporting unit based upon the amount of goodwill generated at the time of acquisition of the businesses by the reporting unit. The Company first perform a qualitative assessment annually at each reporting unit that has goodwill to determine if facts and circumstances indicate that goodwill is more likely than not impaired. If the qualitative assessment indicates that goodwill of a reporting unit is not more likely than not impaired, we do not perform a quantitative impairment test for the reporting unit. If the qualitative assessment indicates that goodwill of a reporting unit is more likely than not impaired, we perform the first step, or step 1, of the quantitative goodwill impairment test. The Company performs its annual review of impairment at year end and when a triggering event occurs between annual year end reviews.
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS	CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS—Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash and all highly liquid investments purchased with maturities of three months or less. Cash and cash equivalents are invested in institutions insured by government agencies. Certain accounts contain balances in excess of the insured limits. Kennedy Wilson's operations and financial position are affected by fluctuations in currency exchange rates between the Yen and European currencies against the U.S. Dollar.
SHORT TERM INVESTMENTS	SHORT TERM INVESTMENTS—Short term investments, which have an original maturity of one year or less, are carried at amortized cost, which approximates fair value.
LONG-LIVED ASSETS	LONG-LIVED ASSETS—Kennedy-Wilson reviews its long-lived assets (excluding goodwill) whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable in accordance with Impairment of Long-Lived Assets ASC Subtopic 360-10. Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset to estimated undiscounted future cash flows expected to be generated by the asset. If the carrying amount of an asset exceeds its estimated undiscounted future cash flows, an impairment charge is recognized in the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds the fair value of the asset. Assets to be disposed of are presented separately in the balance sheet and reported at the lower of the carrying amount or fair value less costs to sell, and are no longer depreciated. The assets and liabilities of the assets to be disposed of are classified as held for sale and would be presented separately in the appropriate asset and liability sections of the balance sheet.
ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE	ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE—Accounts receivable are recorded at the contractual amount as determined by the underlying agreements and do not bear interest. An allowance for doubtful accounts is provided when the Company determines there are probable credit losses in the Company’s existing accounts receivable and is determined based on historical experience. The Company reviews its accounts receivable for probable credit losses on a quarterly basis. As of December 31, 2012, the Company had an immaterial allowance for doubtful accounts and during the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 had recorded no provision for doubtful accounts.
FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS	FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS—The estimated fair value of financial instruments is determined using available market information and appropriate valuation methodologies. Considerable judgment, however, is necessary to interpret market data and develop the related estimates of fair value. Accordingly, the estimates presented herein are not necessarily indicative of the amounts that could be realized upon disposition of the financial instruments. The use of different market assumptions or estimation methodologies may have a material impact on the estimated fair value amounts.
NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS	NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS—Noncontrolling interests are reported within equity as a separate component of Kennedy-Wilson's equity in accordance with Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements ASC Subtopic 810-10. Revenues, expenses, gains, losses, net income or loss, and other comprehensive income are reported in the consolidated statements of operations at the consolidated amounts and net income and comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests are separately stated.
CAPITALIZED INTEREST	CAPITALIZED INTEREST—Kennedy-Wilson capitalizes interest in accordance with Capitalization of Interest Cost ASC Subtopic 835-20 for assets that are undergoing development or entitlement activities in preparation for their planned principal operations. For qualifying equity investments, interest is capitalized in accordance with Capitalization of Interest Cost in Financial Statements That Include Investments Accounted for Under the Equity Method ASC Subtopic 835-20. An appropriate interest rate is applied to Kennedy-Wilson’s cash investment in the qualifying asset. Interest capitalization begins upon the commencement of development activities and ceases when the investment has begun its planned principal operations.
DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND HEDING ACTIVITIES	DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES—Kennedy Wilson has joint ventures that hold derivatives to reduce their exposure to foreign currencies. All derivative instruments are recognized as either assets or liabilities in the balance sheet at their respective fair values. For derivatives designated in hedging relationships, changes in fair value of cash flow hedges or net investment hedges are recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income, to the extent the derivative is effective at offsetting the changes in the item being hedged until the hedged item affects earnings. Changes in fair value for fair value hedges are recognized in earnings.
GUARANTEES	GUARANTEES—Kennedy-Wilson has certain guarantees associated with loans secured by assets held in various joint venture investments. The maximum potential amount of future payments (undiscounted) Kennedy Wilson could be required to make under the guarantees was $55.5 million and $26.7 million at December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively. The guarantees expire through 2017 and Kennedy Wilson’s performance under the guarantees would be required to the extent there is a shortfall in liquidation between the principal amount of the loan and the net sales proceeds of the asset. Based upon Kennedy Wilson’s evaluation of guarantees under Estimated Fair Value of Guarantees ASC Subtopic 460-10, the estimated fair value of guarantees made as of December 31, 2012 and 2011 is immaterial.
CONCENTRATION OF CREDIT RISK	CONCENTRATION OF CREDIT RISK—Financial instruments that subject Kennedy Wilson to credit risk consist primarily of accounts and notes receivable and cash equivalents. Credit risk is generally diversified due to the large number of entities composing Kennedy Wilson’s customer base and their geographic dispersion throughout the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland and Japan. Kennedy Wilson performs ongoing credit evaluations of its customers and debtors.
EARNINGS PER SHARE	EARNINGS PER SHARE—Basic earnings per share is computed based upon the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the periods presented. Diluted earnings per share is computed based upon the weighted average number of shares of common stock and potentially dilutive securities outstanding during the periods presented. The dilutive impact of potentially dilutive securities including warrants, convertible securities, and unvested stock which were outstanding during the period is calculated by the “treasury stock” method.
FOREIGN CURRENCIES	FOREIGN CURRENCIES—The financial statements of subsidiaries located outside the United States are measured using the local currency as the functional currency. The assets and liabilities of these subsidiaries are translated at the rates of exchange at the balance sheet date, and income and expenses are translated at the average monthly rate. The foreign currencies include the Euro, the British pound sterling, and the Japanese yen. Cumulative translation adjustments, to the extent not included in cumulative net income, are included in the consolidated statements of equity and comprehensive income as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income.
COMPREHENSIVE (LOSS) INCOME	COMPREHENSIVE (LOSS) INCOME—Comprehensive (loss) income consists of net income (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss). In the accompanying consolidated balance sheets, accumulated other comprehensive income consists of foreign currency translation adjustments and unrealized gains (losses) on available for sale securities and derivative instruments.
REPURCHASE OF EQUITY INSTRUMENTS	REPURCHASE OF EQUITY INSTRUMENTS—Upon the decision to retire repurchased equity instruments, Kennedy Wilson records the retirement as a reduction to additional paid in capital.
SHARE-BASED PAYMENT ARRANGEMENTS	SHARE-BASED PAYMENT ARRANGEMENTS—Kennedy Wilson accounts for its share-based payment arrangements under the provisions of Share-Based Payments ASC Subtopic 718-10. Compensation cost for employee service received in exchange for an award of equity instruments is based on the grant-date fair value of the share-based award that is ultimately settled in equity of Kennedy Wilson. The cost of employee services is recognized over the period during which an employee provides service in exchange for the share-based payment award. Share-based payment arrangements with only services conditions that vest ratably over the requisite service period are recognized on the straight-line basis and performance awards that vest ratably are recognized on a tranche by tranche basis over the performance period. Unrecognized compensation costs for share-based payment arrangements that have been modified are recognized over the original service or performance period.
FAIR VALUE OPTION	FAIR VALUE OPTION—Kennedy-Wilson accounts for financial assets and financial liabilities at fair value on an instrument-by-instrument basis, with changes in fair value reported in earnings in accordance with the provisions of Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures ASC Subtopic 820-10.
INCOME TAXES	INCOME TAXES—Income taxes are accounted for under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. In accordance with Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes ASC Subtopic 740-10, Kennedy-Wilson recognizes the effect of income tax positions only if those positions are more likely than not of being sustained. Recognized income tax positions are measured at the largest amount that is greater than 50% likely of being realized. Changes in recognition or measurement are reflected in the period in which the change in judgment occurs. Kennedy-Wilson records interest related to unrecognized tax benefits in interest expense and penalties in selling, general, and administrative expenses.
RECLASSIFICATIONS	RECLASSIFICATIONS—Certain balances included in prior years' financial statements have been reclassified to conform with the current year's presentation.

BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Policies)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

BASIS OF PRESENTATION—The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Kennedy Wilson and its wholly owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. In addition, Kennedy Wilson evaluates its relationships with other entities to identify whether they are variable interest entities (VIE) as defined by FASB Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) Subtopic 810 – Consolidation and to assess whether it is the primary beneficiary of such entities. In determining whether Kennedy Wilson is the primary beneficiary of a VIE, qualitative and quantitative factors are considered, including, but not limited to: the amount and characteristics of Kennedy-Wilson's investment; the obligation or likelihood for Kennedy Wilson to provide financial support; Kennedy Wilson's ability to control or significantly influence key decisions for the VIE; and the similarity with and significance to the business activities of Kennedy Wilson. Significant judgments related to these determinations include estimates about the future fair values and performance of real estate held by these VIEs and general market conditions. As of December 31, 2012, Kennedy-Wilson has determined that it does not have any VIEs except as discussed in the joint ventures policy below.

USE OF ESTIMATES

USE OF ESTIMATES—The preparation of the accompanying consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) requires management to make estimates and assumptions about future events. These estimates and the underlying assumptions affect the amounts of assets and liabilities reported, disclosure about contingent assets and liabilities, and reported amounts of revenues and expenses. Management evaluates its estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis using historical experience and other factors, including the current economic environment, which management believes to be reasonable under the circumstances. Management adjusts such estimates and assumptions when facts and circumstances dictate. The after-effects of the recent global financial crisis, including highly volatile credit, equity and foreign currency markets and a slow and uneven global economic recovery, have increased the uncertainty inherent in such estimates and assumptions. As future events and their effects cannot be determined with precision, actual results could differ significantly from these estimates. Changes in those estimates will be reflected in the financial statements in future periods.

REVENUE RECOGNITION

REVENUE RECOGNITION—Revenue primarily consists of management fees, performance fees, commission revenue, rental income and sales of real estate.

Management fees are primarily comprised of property management fees and base asset management fees. Property management fees are earned for managing the operations of real estate assets and are generally based on a fixed percentage of the revenues generated from the respective real estate assets. Base asset management fees are earned from limited partners of funds Kennedy-Wilson sponsors and are generally based on a fixed percentage of committed capital or net asset value. These fees are recognized as revenue ratably over the period that the respective services are performed.

Performance fees or carried interest are allocated to the general partner, special limited partner or asset manager of Kennedy Wilson's real estate funds and loan pool participations based on the cumulative performance of the fund and loan pools and are subject to preferred return thresholds of the limited partners and participants. At the end of each reporting period, Kennedy Wilson calculates the performance fee that would be due as if the fair value of the underlying investments were realized as of such date, irrespective of whether such amounts have been realized. As the fair value of underlying investments varies between reporting periods, it is necessary to make adjustments to amounts recorded as performance fees to reflect either (a) positive performance resulting in an increase in the performance fee allocated to the general partner or asset manager or (b) negative performance that would cause the amount due to Kennedy-Wilson to be less than the amount previously recognized as revenue, resulting in a negative adjustment to performance fees allocated to the general partner or asset manager. Substantially all of the performance fees are recognized in management and leasing fees and substantially all of the carried interest is recognized in equity in joint venture income in our consolidated statements of operations. Total performances fees recognized to date through December 31, 2012 that may be reversed in future periods if there is negative fund performance totaled $12.8 million. Performance fees accrued as of December 31, 2012 and 2011 were $8.6 million and $4.2 million, respectively, and are included in accounts receivable—related parties in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.

Commissions primarily consist of acquisition fees, auction and real estate sales commissions and leasing commissions. Acquisition fees are earned for identifying and closing investments on behalf of investors and are based on a fixed percentage of the acquisition price. Acquisition fees are recognized upon the successful completion of an acquisition after all required services have been performed. In the case of auction and real estate sales commissions, the revenue is generally recognized when escrow closes. In accordance with the guidelines established for Reporting Revenue Gross as a Principal versus Net as an Agent in the ASC Subtopic 605-45, Kennedy Wilson records commission revenues and expenses on a gross basis. Of the criteria listed in the Subtopic 605-45, Kennedy Wilson is the primary obligor in the transaction, does not have inventory risk, performs all or part of the service, has credit risk, and has wide latitude in establishing the price of services rendered and discretion in selection of agents and determination of service specifications. Leasing fees that are payable upon tenant occupancy, payment of rent or other events beyond Kennedy Wilson's control are recognized upon the occurrence of such events.

Rental income from operating leases is generally recognized on a straight-line basis over the terms of the leases.

Sales of real estate are recognized at the close of escrow when title to the real property passes to the buyer and there is no continuing involvement in the real property. Kennedy Wilson follows the requirements for profit recognition as set forth by the Sale of Real Estate ASC Subtopic 360-20.

REAL ESTATE ACQUISITIONS

REAL ESTATE ACQUISITIONS—When acquiring a property, the purchase price of acquired properties is recorded to land, buildings and building improvements and intangible lease value (value of above-market and below-market leases, acquired in-place lease values, and tenant relationships, if any) based on their respective estimated fair values in accordance with Business Combinations ASC Subtopics 805-10. Acquisition-related costs are expensed as incurred.

The valuations of real estate are based on management estimates of the real estate assets using income and market approaches. The indebtedness securing the real estate are valued, in part, based on third party valuations and management estimates also using an income approach.

INVESTMENTS IN JOINT VENTURES

INVESTMENTS IN JOINT VENTURES—Kennedy Wilson has a number of joint venture interests, that were formed to acquire, manage, and/or sell real estate and invest in loan pools and discounted loan portfolios. Investments in joint ventures which Kennedy Wilson does not control are accounted for under the equity method of accounting as Kennedy Wilson can exercise significant influence, but does not have the ability to control the joint venture. An investment in a joint venture is recorded at its initial investment and is increased or decreased by Kennedy Wilson’s share of income or loss, plus additional contributions and less distributions. A decline in the value of an investments in a joint venture that is other than temporary is recognized when evidence indicates that such a decline has occurred in accordance with Equity Method Investments ASC Subtopic 323-10. As of December 31, 2012, Kennedy Wilson also had investments in five joint venture investments which are VIEs in which Kennedy Wilson is not the primary beneficiary and therefore accounts for them under the equity method as well.

Profits on the sale of real estate held by joint ventures in which Kennedy Wilson has continuing involvement are deferred until such time that the continuing involvement has been concluded and all the risks and rewards of ownership have passed to the buyer. Profit on sales to joint ventures in which Kennedy Wilson retains an equity ownership interest results in partial sales treatment in accordance with Sale of Real Estate ASC Subtopic 360-20, thus deferring a portion of the gain as a result of Kennedy Wilson’s continuing ownership percentage in the joint ventures.

Kennedy Wilson has three investments in joint ventures, KW Property Fund III, L.P. (KW Fund III), Kennedy Wilson Real Estate Fund IV, L.P. (Fund IV) and SG KW Venture I, LLC (the Funds) that are investment companies under the Investment Companies ASC Subtopic 946-10. Thus, the Funds reflect their investments at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses resulting from changes in fair value reflected in their earnings. Kennedy Wilson has retained the specialized accounting for the Funds pursuant to Retention of Specialized Accounting for Investments in Consolidation ASC Subtopic 810-10 in recording its equity in joint venture income from the Funds.

Additionally, Kennedy Wilson elected the fair value option for two investments in joint venture entities that were acquired during 2008. Kennedy-Wilson elected to record these investments at fair value to more accurately reflect the timing of the value created in the underlying investments and report those results in current operations.

INVESTMENTS IN LOAN POOL PARTICIPATIONS AND NOTES RECEIVABLE

INVESTMENTS IN LOAN POOL PARTICIPATIONS AND NOTES RECEIVABLE—Interest income from investments in loan pool participations and note receivable are recognized on a level yield basis under the provisions of Loans and Debt Securities Acquired with Deteriorated Credit Quality ASC Subtopic 310-30, where a level yield model is utilized to determine a yield rate which, based upon projected future cash flows, accretes interest income over the estimated holding period. In the event that the present value of those future cash flows is less than net book value, a loss would be immediately recorded. When the future cash flows of a note cannot be reasonably estimated, cash payments are applied to the cost basis of the note until it is fully recovered before any interest income is recognized. Interest income from investments in notes receivable acquired at a discount are recognized using the effective interest method. Interest income from investments in notes receivable which the Company originates are recognized at the stated interest rate.

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS—Kennedy Wilson accounts for fair value measurements of financial assets and financial liabilities and for fair value measurements of nonfinancial items that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the financial statements on a recurring basis under the provisions of Fair Value Measurements ASC Subtopic 820-10. Subtopic 820-10 defines fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. When estimating fair value in the absence of an orderly transaction between market participants, valuations of real estate are based on management estimates of the real estate assets using income and market approaches. The indebtedness securing the real estate and the investments in debt securities are valued, in part, based on third party valuations and management estimates also using an income approach.

GOODWILL

GOODWILL—Goodwill results from the difference between the purchase price and the fair value of net assets acquired based upon the purchase method of accounting for business combinations. In accordance with Accounting for Goodwill ASC Subtopic 350-20, goodwill is reviewed for impairment on an annual basis. In testing for impairment, goodwill is assigned to the reporting unit based upon the amount of goodwill generated at the time of acquisition of the businesses by the reporting unit. The Company first perform a qualitative assessment annually at each reporting unit that has goodwill to determine if facts and circumstances indicate that goodwill is more likely than not impaired. If the qualitative assessment indicates that goodwill of a reporting unit is not more likely than not impaired, we do not perform a quantitative impairment test for the reporting unit. If the qualitative assessment indicates that goodwill of a reporting unit is more likely than not impaired, we perform the first step, or step 1, of the quantitative goodwill impairment test. The Company performs its annual review of impairment at year end and when a triggering event occurs between annual year end reviews.

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS—Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash and all highly liquid investments purchased with maturities of three months or less. Cash and cash equivalents are invested in institutions insured by government agencies. Certain accounts contain balances in excess of the insured limits. Kennedy Wilson's operations and financial position are affected by fluctuations in currency exchange rates between the Yen and European currencies against the U.S. Dollar.

SHORT TERM INVESTMENTS

SHORT TERM INVESTMENTS—Short term investments, which have an original maturity of one year or less, are carried at amortized cost, which approximates fair value.

LONG-LIVED ASSETS

LONG-LIVED ASSETS—Kennedy-Wilson reviews its long-lived assets (excluding goodwill) whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable in accordance with Impairment of Long-Lived Assets ASC Subtopic 360-10. Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset to estimated undiscounted future cash flows expected to be generated by the asset. If the carrying amount of an asset exceeds its estimated undiscounted future cash flows, an impairment charge is recognized in the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds the fair value of the asset. Assets to be disposed of are presented separately in the balance sheet and reported at the lower of the carrying amount or fair value less costs to sell, and are no longer depreciated. The assets and liabilities of the assets to be disposed of are classified as held for sale and would be presented separately in the appropriate asset and liability sections of the balance sheet.

ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE

ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE—Accounts receivable are recorded at the contractual amount as determined by the underlying agreements and do not bear interest. An allowance for doubtful accounts is provided when the Company determines there are probable credit losses in the Company’s existing accounts receivable and is determined based on historical experience. The Company reviews its accounts receivable for probable credit losses on a quarterly basis. As of December 31, 2012, the Company had an immaterial allowance for doubtful accounts and during the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 had recorded no provision for doubtful accounts.

FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS—The estimated fair value of financial instruments is determined using available market information and appropriate valuation methodologies. Considerable judgment, however, is necessary to interpret market data and develop the related estimates of fair value. Accordingly, the estimates presented herein are not necessarily indicative of the amounts that could be realized upon disposition of the financial instruments. The use of different market assumptions or estimation methodologies may have a material impact on the estimated fair value amounts.

NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS

NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS—Noncontrolling interests are reported within equity as a separate component of Kennedy-Wilson's equity in accordance with Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements ASC Subtopic 810-10. Revenues, expenses, gains, losses, net income or loss, and other comprehensive income are reported in the consolidated statements of operations at the consolidated amounts and net income and comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests are separately stated.

CAPITALIZED INTEREST

CAPITALIZED INTEREST—Kennedy-Wilson capitalizes interest in accordance with Capitalization of Interest Cost ASC Subtopic 835-20 for assets that are undergoing development or entitlement activities in preparation for their planned principal operations. For qualifying equity investments, interest is capitalized in accordance with Capitalization of Interest Cost in Financial Statements That Include Investments Accounted for Under the Equity Method ASC Subtopic 835-20. An appropriate interest rate is applied to Kennedy-Wilson’s cash investment in the qualifying asset. Interest capitalization begins upon the commencement of development activities and ceases when the investment has begun its planned principal operations.

DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND HEDING ACTIVITIES

DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES—Kennedy Wilson has joint ventures that hold derivatives to reduce their exposure to foreign currencies. All derivative instruments are recognized as either assets or liabilities in the balance sheet at their respective fair values. For derivatives designated in hedging relationships, changes in fair value of cash flow hedges or net investment hedges are recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income, to the extent the derivative is effective at offsetting the changes in the item being hedged until the hedged item affects earnings. Changes in fair value for fair value hedges are recognized in earnings.

GUARANTEES

GUARANTEES—Kennedy-Wilson has certain guarantees associated with loans secured by assets held in various joint venture investments. The maximum potential amount of future payments (undiscounted) Kennedy Wilson could be required to make under the guarantees was $55.5 million and $26.7 million at December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively. The guarantees expire through 2017 and Kennedy Wilson’s performance under the guarantees would be required to the extent there is a shortfall in liquidation between the principal amount of the loan and the net sales proceeds of the asset. Based upon Kennedy Wilson’s evaluation of guarantees under Estimated Fair Value of Guarantees ASC Subtopic 460-10, the estimated fair value of guarantees made as of December 31, 2012 and 2011 is immaterial.

CONCENTRATION OF CREDIT RISK

CONCENTRATION OF CREDIT RISK—Financial instruments that subject Kennedy Wilson to credit risk consist primarily of accounts and notes receivable and cash equivalents. Credit risk is generally diversified due to the large number of entities composing Kennedy Wilson’s customer base and their geographic dispersion throughout the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland and Japan. Kennedy Wilson performs ongoing credit evaluations of its customers and debtors.

EARNINGS PER SHARE

EARNINGS PER SHARE—Basic earnings per share is computed based upon the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the periods presented. Diluted earnings per share is computed based upon the weighted average number of shares of common stock and potentially dilutive securities outstanding during the periods presented. The dilutive impact of potentially dilutive securities including warrants, convertible securities, and unvested stock which were outstanding during the period is calculated by the “treasury stock” method.

FOREIGN CURRENCIES

FOREIGN CURRENCIES—The financial statements of subsidiaries located outside the United States are measured using the local currency as the functional currency. The assets and liabilities of these subsidiaries are translated at the rates of exchange at the balance sheet date, and income and expenses are translated at the average monthly rate. The foreign currencies include the Euro, the British pound sterling, and the Japanese yen. Cumulative translation adjustments, to the extent not included in cumulative net income, are included in the consolidated statements of equity and comprehensive income as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income.

COMPREHENSIVE (LOSS) INCOME

COMPREHENSIVE (LOSS) INCOME—Comprehensive (loss) income consists of net income (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss). In the accompanying consolidated balance sheets, accumulated other comprehensive income consists of foreign currency translation adjustments and unrealized gains (losses) on available for sale securities and derivative instruments.

REPURCHASE OF EQUITY INSTRUMENTS

REPURCHASE OF EQUITY INSTRUMENTS—Upon the decision to retire repurchased equity instruments, Kennedy Wilson records the retirement as a reduction to additional paid in capital.

SHARE-BASED PAYMENT ARRANGEMENTS

SHARE-BASED PAYMENT ARRANGEMENTS—Kennedy Wilson accounts for its share-based payment arrangements under the provisions of Share-Based Payments ASC Subtopic 718-10. Compensation cost for employee service received in exchange for an award of equity instruments is based on the grant-date fair value of the share-based award that is ultimately settled in equity of Kennedy Wilson. The cost of employee services is recognized over the period during which an employee provides service in exchange for the share-based payment award. Share-based payment arrangements with only services conditions that vest ratably over the requisite service period are recognized on the straight-line basis and performance awards that vest ratably are recognized on a tranche by tranche basis over the performance period. Unrecognized compensation costs for share-based payment arrangements that have been modified are recognized over the original service or performance period.

FAIR VALUE OPTION

FAIR VALUE OPTION—Kennedy-Wilson accounts for financial assets and financial liabilities at fair value on an instrument-by-instrument basis, with changes in fair value reported in earnings in accordance with the provisions of Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures ASC Subtopic 820-10.

INCOME TAXES

INCOME TAXES—Income taxes are accounted for under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. In accordance with Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes ASC Subtopic 740-10, Kennedy-Wilson recognizes the effect of income tax positions only if those positions are more likely than not of being sustained. Recognized income tax positions are measured at the largest amount that is greater than 50% likely of being realized. Changes in recognition or measurement are reflected in the period in which the change in judgment occurs.

Kennedy-Wilson records interest related to unrecognized tax benefits in interest expense and penalties in selling, general, and administrative expenses.

RECLASSIFICATIONS

RECLASSIFICATIONS—Certain balances included in prior years' financial statements have been reclassified to conform with the current year's presentation.