Related Party Transactions and Arrangements (Schedule of Investment in the Managed REITs) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014
Cole Managed REITs [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Carrying Amount of Investment	$ 3,890
CCPT IV [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
% of Outstanding Shares Owned	0.01%
Carrying Amount of Investment	131
CCPT V [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
% of Outstanding Shares Owned	1.69%
Carrying Amount of Investment	1,888
CCIT [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
% of Outstanding Shares Owned	0.01%
Carrying Amount of Investment	74
CCIT II [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
% of Outstanding Shares Owned	1.20%
Carrying Amount of Investment	1,644
INAV [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
% of Outstanding Shares Owned	0.19%
Carrying Amount of Investment	$ 153