Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	Dec. 31, 2016
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Basis of Accounting	The consolidated financial statements of the Company presented herein include the accounts of the General Partner and its consolidated subsidiaries, including the OP. All intercompany transactions have been eliminated upon consolidation. The financial statements are prepared on the accrual basis of accounting in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (“U.S. GAAP”).
Principles of Consolidation and Basis of Presentation	The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its subsidiaries and consolidated joint venture arrangements (the “Consolidated Joint Ventures”). The portions of the Consolidated Joint Ventures not owned by the Company are presented as non-controlling interests in VEREIT’s and the OP’s consolidated balance sheets, statements of operations, statements of comprehensive income (loss) and statements of changes in equity. In addition, as described in Note 1 – Organization, certain third parties have been issued OP Units. Holders of OP Units are considered to be non-controlling interest holders in the OP and their ownership interest in the limited partner’s share is presented as non-controlling interests in VEREIT’s consolidated balance sheets, statements of operations, statements of comprehensive income (loss) and statements of changes in equity. Further, a portion of the earnings and losses of the OP are allocated to non-controlling interest holders based on their respective ownership percentages. Upon conversion of OP Units to Common Stock, any difference between the fair value of shares of Common Stock issued and the carrying value of the OP Units converted is recorded as a component of equity. As of December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, there were approximately 23.75 million and 23.76 million Limited Partner OP Units outstanding, respectively. For legal entities being evaluated for consolidation, the Company must first determine whether the interests that it holds and fees it receives qualify as variable interests in the entity. A variable interest is an investment or other interest that will absorb portions of an entity’s expected losses or receive portions of the entity’s expected residual returns. The Company’s evaluation includes consideration of fees paid to the Company where the Company acts as a decision maker or service provider to the entity being evaluated. If the Company determines that it holds a variable interest in an entity, it evaluates whether that entity is a variable interest entity (“VIE”). VIEs are entities where investors lack sufficient equity at risk for the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support or where equity investors, as a group, lack one of the following characteristics: (a) the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance, (b) the obligation to absorb the expected losses of the entity, or (c) the right to receive the expected returns of the entity. The Company then qualitatively assesses whether it is (or is not) the primary beneficiary of a VIE, which is generally defined as the party who has a controlling financial interest in the VIE. Consideration of various factors include, but are not limited to, the Company’s ability to direct the activities that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance and its obligation to absorb losses from or right to receive benefits of the VIE that could potentially be significant to the VIE. The Company consolidates any VIEs when the Company is determined to be the primary beneficiary of the VIE and the difference between consolidating the VIE and accounting for it using the equity method could be material to the Company’s consolidated financial statements. The Company continually evaluates the need to consolidate these VIEs based on standards set forth in U.S. GAAP.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements	In October 2016, the U.S. Financial Accounting Standards Board (the “FASB”) Accounting Standards Update, (“ASU”) No. 2016-17, Consolidation (Topic 810): Interests Held through Related Parties That Are under Common Control (“ASU 2016-17”), which changes how a single decision maker will consider its indirect interests when performing the primary beneficiary analysis under the VIE model. Under ASU 2015-02 “Consolidation (Topic 810), Amendments to the Consolidation Analysis,” a single decision maker was required to consider an indirect interest held by a related party under common control in its entirety. Under ASU 2016-17, the single decision maker will consider the indirect interest on a proportionate basis. ASU 2016-17 does not change the characteristics of a primary beneficiary in the VIE model. The amendments of ASU 2016-17 are effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, with early adoption permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact this amendment will have on its consolidated financial statements. In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (“ASU 2014-09”), which supersedes the revenue recognition requirements in Revenue Recognition, Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) (Topic 605) and requires an entity to recognize revenue in a way that depicts the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. In August 2015, an amendment to ASU 2014-09, ASU 2015-14, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Deferral of the Effective Date (“ASU 2015-14”), was issued to defer the effective date for all entities by one year. For public business entities, certain not-for-profit entities and certain employee benefit plans, the guidance should be applied to annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim reporting periods within that reporting period. Earlier application is permitted only as of annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim reporting periods within that reporting period. Companies may use either a full retrospective or a modified retrospective approach to adopt ASU 2014-09. The Company is currently assessing the adoption methodology. In accordance with the Company’s plan for the adoption of ASU 2014-09, the Company’s implementation team has identified the Company’s revenue streams and is performing an in-depth review of the Company’s revenue contracts to identify the related performance obligations and to evaluate the impact on the Company’s financial statements and internal accounting processes and controls. As the majority of the Company’s revenue is derived from real estate lease contracts, as discussed in relation to ASU 2016-02 Leases (Topic 842) (“ASU 2016-02”), the Company does not expect that the adoption of ASU 2014-09 will have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements. In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-01, Financial Instruments (Subtopic 825-10), which requires all equity investments to be measured at fair value with changes in the fair value recognized through net income (other than those accounted for under equity method of accounting or those that result in consolidation of the investee). The amendments in this update also require an entity to present separately in other comprehensive income, the portion of the total change in the fair value of a liability resulting from a change in the instrument-specific credit risk when the entity has elected to measure the liability at fair value in accordance with the fair value option for financial instruments. In addition, the amendments in this update require separate presentation of financial assets and financial liabilities by measurement category and form of financial asset on the balance sheet or the accompanying notes to the financial statements. The amendments in this update are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2017. The Company is currently evaluating the impact that this new guidance will have on its consolidated financial statements. In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, which will require that a lessee recognize assets and liabilities on the balance sheet for all leases with a lease term of more than 12 months, with the result being the recognition of a right of use asset and a lease liability and the disclosure of key information about the entity’s leasing arrangements. ASU 2016-02 retains a distinction between finance leases (i.e., capital leases under current U.S. GAAP) and operating leases. The classification criteria for distinguishing between finance leases and operating leases will be substantially similar to the classification criteria for distinguishing between capital leases and operating leases under current U.S. GAAP. The amendments in ASU 2016-02 are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years, with early adoption permitted. A modified retrospective approach is required for existing leases that have not expired upon adoption. The Company’s implementation team is developing an inventory of all leases, as well as identifying any non-lease components in the lease arrangements, and evaluating the impact to the Company, both as lessor and lessee, and its consolidated financial statements. In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-05, Effect of Derivative Contract Novations on Existing Hedge Accounting Relationships (Topic 815). The amendments in this update clarify that a change in the counterparty to a derivative instrument that has been designated as a hedging instrument does not, in and of itself, require de-designation of that hedging relationship provided that all other hedge accounting criteria continue to be met. These provisions are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016, and interim periods within those fiscal years, with early adoption permitted. The Company plans to adopt prospectively and will consider for any future novations. In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09, Compensation – Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Improvement to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting (“ASU 2016-09”), which affects entities that issue share-based payment awards to their employees. ASU 2016-09 is designed to simplify several aspects of accounting for share-based payment award transactions including the income tax consequences, classification of awards as either equity or liabilities, classification on the statement of cash flows and forfeiture rate calculations. The guidance will be effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016 and interim periods within those fiscal years with early adoption permitted. The Company elected to early adopt this guidance during the first quarter of 2016, which did not have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements. In connection with the adoption, the Company modified the consolidated statement of changes in equity to include the line item cumulative-effect adjustment for equity-based compensation forfeitures, which represents application of the accounting change on a modified retrospective basis. In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments – Credit Losses (Topic 326) (“ASU 2016-13”). ASU 2016-13 is intended to improve financial reporting by requiring more timely recording of credit losses on loans and other financial instruments that are not accounted for at fair value through net income, including loans held for investment, held-to-maturity debt securities, trade and other receivables, net investment in leases and other such commitments. ASU 2016-13 requires that financial assets measured at amortized cost be presented at the net amount expected to be collected, through an allowance for credit losses that is deducted from the amortized cost basis. The amendments in ASU 2016-13 require the Company to measure all expected credit losses based upon historical experience, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts that affect the collectability of the financial assets and eliminates the “incurred loss” methodology under current U.S. GAAP. ASU 2016-13 is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within, beginning after December 15, 2019. Early adoption is permitted for fiscal years, and interim periods within, beginning after December 15, 2018. The Company is currently evaluating the impact this amendment will have on its consolidated financial statements. In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments (“ASU 2016-15”), which is intended to address diversity in practice related to how certain cash receipts and cash payments are presented and classified in the statement of cash flows. The amendments in ASU 2016-15 address eight specific cash flow issues as well as application of the predominance principle (dependence on predominant source or use of receipt or payment) and are effective for public business entities for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017 and interim periods within those fiscal years with early adoption permitted. ASU 2016-15 requires retrospective adoption unless it is impracticable to apply, in which case it is to be applied prospectively as of the earliest date practicable. The Company plans to adopt ASU 2016-15 during the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2017. In November 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-18, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Restricted Cash (“ASU 2016-18”), which provides guidance on the presentation of restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents in the statement of cash flows. In accordance with ASU 2016-18, restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents should be included with cash and cash equivalents when reconciling the beginning-of-period and end-of-period amounts shown on the statements of cash flows. The amendments of ASU 2016-18 are effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, with early adoption permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact this amendment will have on its consolidated financial statements. In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-01, Business Combinations (Topic 805): Clarifying the Definition of a Business (“ASU 2017-01”), which clarifies the definition of a business by adding guidance to assist entities in evaluating whether transactions should be accounted for as acquisitions (or disposals) of assets or businesses. The guidance is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those periods, with early adoption permitted and is required to be applied prospectively to any transactions occurring within the period of adoption. The Company plans to adopt ASU 2017-01 during the first quarter of fiscal year 2017 and expects that most future acquisitions (or disposals) will qualify as asset acquisitions (or disposals). As such, future acquisition related expenses associated with these asset acquisitions will be capitalized and the REI segment’s goodwill will no longer be allocated to these asset dispositions at the time the asset is classified as held for sale or upon disposition in determining the gain or loss on disposition and held for sale. In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04, Intangibles – Goodwill and Others (Topic 350): Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment (“ASU 2017-04”), which simplifies the measurement of goodwill impairment by eliminating Step 2 from the goodwill impairment test (comparing the implied fair value of goodwill with the carrying amount of goodwill). ASU 2017-04 is effective for public business entities for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2019, and interim periods within those fiscal years, with early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact this amendment will have on its consolidated financial statements.
Reclassification	As described below, the following items previously reported have been reclassified to conform with the current period’s presentation. The land and construction in progress line item from prior periods has been combined into the buildings, fixtures and improvements caption in the consolidated balance sheets. Equity in income of unconsolidated joint ventures previously included in other income, net in the consolidated statements of operations has been included in a separate caption entitled equity in income (loss) and gain on disposition of unconsolidated entities. Gain (loss) on investment securities previously included as a separate caption in the consolidated statements of operations, has been included in other income, net in the consolidated statements of operations.
Use of Estimates	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Management makes significant estimates regarding goodwill and intangible asset impairments, real estate investment impairment, loans held for investment, program development costs, allocation of purchase price of business combinations and income taxes as well as the consolidation of equity investments.
Real Estate Investments	The Company records acquired real estate at cost and makes assessments as to the useful lives of depreciable assets. The Company considers the period of future benefit of the asset to determine the appropriate useful lives. Depreciation is computed using a straight-line method over the estimated useful life of 40 years for buildings, five to 15 years for building fixtures and improvements and the remaining lease term for intangible lease assets.
Assets Held for Sale and Development Activities	Upon classifying a real estate investment as held for sale, the Company will no longer recognize depreciation expense related to the depreciable assets of the property. Furthermore, the Company will allocate goodwill to the cost basis of an asset upon held for sale classification. Assets held for sale are recorded at the lower of carrying value or estimated fair value, less the estimated cost to dispose of the assets. See Note 5 – Real Estate Investments for further discussion regarding properties held for sale. If circumstances arise that the Company previously considered unlikely and, as a result, the Company decides not to sell a property previously classified as held for sale, the Company will reclassify the property as held and used. The Company measures and records a property that is reclassified as held and used at the lower of (i) its carrying value before the property was classified as held for sale, adjusted for any depreciation expense that would have been recognized had the property been continuously classified as held and used or (ii) the estimated fair value at the date of the subsequent decision not to sell. Development Activities Project costs, which include interest expense, associated with the development, construction and lease-up of a real estate project are capitalized as construction in progress. Once the development and construction of the building is substantially completed, the amounts capitalized to construction in progress are transferred to (i) land and (ii) buildings, fixtures and improvements and are depreciated over their respective useful lives.
Investment in Unconsolidated Entities	Unconsolidated Joint Ventures The Company accounts for its investment in unconsolidated joint venture arrangements (the “Unconsolidated Joint Ventures”) using the equity method of accounting as the Company has the ability to exercise significant influence, but not control, over operating and financial policies of these investments. The equity method of accounting requires the investment to be initially recorded at cost and subsequently adjusted for the Company’s share of equity in the joint ventures’ earnings and distributions. The Company records its proportionate share of net income (loss) from the Unconsolidated Joint Ventures in equity in income (loss) and gain on disposition of unconsolidated entities in the consolidated statements of operations. See Note 5 – Real Estate Investments for further discussion on investments in Unconsolidated Joint Ventures. Cole REITs As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Company owned equity investments in the Cole REITs, as defined in Note 3 – Segment Reporting. The Company accounts for these investments using the equity method of accounting which requires the investment to be initially recorded at cost and subsequently adjusted for the Company’s share of equity in the respective entity’s earnings and distributions. The Company records its proportionate share of net income (loss) from the Cole REITs in equity in income and gain on disposition of unconsolidated entities in the consolidated statements of operations.
Allocation of Purchase Price of Business Combinations including Acquired Properties	In accordance with the guidance for business combinations, the Company determines whether a transaction or other event is a business combination. If the transaction is determined to be a business combination, the Company determines if the transaction is considered to be between entities under common control. The acquisition of an entity under common control is accounted for on the carryover basis of accounting whereby the assets and liabilities of the acquired company are recorded on the same basis as they were carried by the acquired company on the merger date. All other business combinations are accounted for by applying the acquisition method of accounting. Under the acquisition method, the Company recognizes the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed and any non-controlling interest in the acquired entity at fair value. In addition, the Company evaluates the existence of goodwill or a gain from a bargain purchase. The Company allocates the purchase price of acquired properties that constitute a business under U.S. GAAP and businesses accounted for under the acquisition method of accounting to tangible and identifiable intangible assets and liabilities acquired based on their respective fair values. Tangible assets include land, buildings, fixtures and improvements on an as-if vacant basis. The Company utilizes various estimates, processes and information to determine the as-if vacant property value. Identifiable intangible assets and liabilities include amounts allocated to acquired leases for above-market and below-market lease rates and the value of in-place leases. In making estimates of fair values for purposes of allocating purchase price, the Company utilizes a number of sources, including independent appraisals that may be obtained in connection with the acquisition or financing of the respective property and other market data. The Company also considers information obtained about each property as a result of its pre-acquisition due diligence, as well as subsequent marketing and leasing activities, in estimating the fair value of the tangible and intangible assets acquired and intangible liabilities assumed. The aggregate value of intangible assets related to in-place leases is primarily the difference between the property valued with existing in-place leases adjusted to market rental rates and the property valued as if vacant. Factors considered by the Company in its analysis of the in-place lease intangibles include an estimate of carrying costs during the expected lease-up period for each property, taking into account current market conditions and costs to execute similar leases. In estimating carrying costs, the Company includes real estate taxes, insurance and other operating expenses and estimates of lost rentals at market rates during the expected lease-up period, which typically ranges from six to 18 months. The Company also estimates costs to execute similar leases, including leasing commissions, legal and other related expenses. The value of in-place leases is amortized over the initial term of the respective leases. If a tenant terminates its lease, then the unamortized portion of the in-place lease value is charged to expense. Above-market and below-market in-place lease values for owned properties are recorded based on the present value (using an interest rate which reflects the risks associated with the leases acquired) of the difference between the contractual amounts to be paid pursuant to the in-place leases and management’s estimate of fair market lease rates for the corresponding in-place leases, measured over a period equal to the remaining non-cancelable term of the lease, including any bargain renewal periods. Above-market leases are amortized as a reduction to rental income over the remaining terms of the respective leases. Below-market leases are amortized as an increase to rental income over the remaining terms of the respective leases, including any bargain renewal periods. The fair value of investments and debt are valued using techniques consistent with those disclosed in Note 10 – Fair Value Measures, depending on the nature of the investment or debt. The fair value of all other assumed assets and liabilities is based on the best information available.
Leasehold Improvements and Property and Equipment	The Company leases its corporate office facilities under operating leases. Leasehold improvements related to these are recorded at cost less accumulated amortization. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the lesser of the estimated useful life or remaining lease term. Property and equipment, which typically include computer hardware and software, furniture and fixtures, among other items, are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Property and equipment are depreciated on a straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets, which range from three to seven years. The Company reassesses the useful lives of its property and equipment and adjusts the future monthly depreciation expense based on the new useful life, as applicable. If the Company disposes of an asset, the asset and related accumulated depreciation are written off upon disposal.
Goodwill	Goodwill In the case of a business combination, after identifying all tangible and intangible assets and liabilities, the excess consideration paid over the fair value of the assets and liabilities acquired and assumed, respectively, represents goodwill. In the event the Company disposes of a property, or classifies a property as an asset held for sale, that constitutes a business under U.S. GAAP, the Company will allocate a portion of the REI segment’s goodwill to that property in determining the gain or loss on the disposal of the property. The amount of goodwill allocated to the business will be based on the relative fair value of the business to the fair value of the reporting unit. The REI segment and the Cole Capital segment each comprise one reporting unit.
Impairments	Real Estate Assets The Company performs quarterly impairment review procedures, primarily through continuous monitoring of events and changes in circumstances that could indicate the carrying value of its real estate assets may not be recoverable. Impairment indicators that the Company considers include, but are not limited to, decrease in net operating income, bankruptcy or other credit concerns of a property’s major tenant or tenants, such as history of late payments, rental concessions and other factors, as well as significant decreases in a property’s revenues due to lease terminations, vacancies, co-tenancy clauses or reduced lease rates. When impairment indicators are identified or if a property is considered to have a more likely than not probability of being disposed of within the next 12 to 24 months, the Company assesses the recoverability of the assets by determining whether the carrying value of the assets will be recovered through the undiscounted future cash flows expected from the use of the assets and their eventual disposition. In the event that such expected undiscounted future cash flows do not exceed the carrying value, the Company will adjust the real estate assets to their respective fair values and recognize an impairment loss. Generally, fair value is determined using a discounted cash flow analysis and recent comparable sales transactions.The assumptions and uncertainties utilized in the evaluation of the impairment of real estate assets are discussed in detail in Note 10 – Fair Value Measures. See also Note 5 – Real Estate Investments for further discussion regarding real estate investment activity. Goodwill The Company evaluates goodwill for impairment annually or more frequently when an event occurs or circumstances change that indicate the carrying value, by reporting unit, may not be recoverable. The Company’s annual testing date is during the fourth quarter. The Company tests goodwill for impairment by first comparing the carrying value of net assets to the fair value of each reporting unit. If the fair value is determined to be less than the carrying value or if qualitative factors indicate that it is more likely than not that goodwill is impaired, a second step is performed to compute the amount of impairment as the difference between the fair value of goodwill and the carrying value. The Company estimates the fair value of the reporting units using discounted cash flows and relevant competitor multiples. The evaluation of goodwill for potential impairment requires the Company’s management to exercise significant judgment and to make certain assumptions. While the Company believes its assumptions are reasonable, there are no guarantees as to actual results. Changes in assumptions based on actual results may have a material impact on the Company’s financial results. The assumptions and uncertainties utilized in the evaluation of the impairment of goodwill are discussed in detail in Note 10 – Fair Value Measures. Goodwill activity by segment is also discussed in Note 4 – Goodwill and Other Intangibles. Intangible Assets The Company evaluates intangible assets for impairment when an event occurs or circumstances change that indicate the carrying value may not be recoverable. The Company tests intangible assets for impairment by first comparing the carrying value of the asset group to the undiscounted future cash flows expected from the use of the assets and their eventual disposition. In the event that such expected undiscounted future cash flows do not exceed the carrying value, the Company will adjust the intangible assets to their respective fair values and recognize an impairment loss. The Company’s intangible assets primarily consist of management and advisory contracts that the Company has with certain Cole REITs. The Company will estimate the fair value of the intangible assets using a discounted cash flow model specific to the applicable Cole REITs. The evaluation of intangible assets for potential impairment requires the Company’s management to exercise significant judgment and to make certain assumptions. While the Company believes its assumptions are reasonable, there are no guarantees as to actual results. Changes in assumptions based on actual results may have a material impact on the Company’s financial results. The assumptions and uncertainties utilized in the evaluation of the impairment of intangibles are discussed in detail in Note 10 – Fair Value Measures. Intangible assets are also discussed in Note 4 – Goodwill and Other Intangibles. Investment in Unconsolidated Entities The Company is required to determine whether an event or change in circumstances has occurred that may have a significant adverse effect on the fair value of any of its investment in the unconsolidated entities. If an event or change in circumstance has occurred, the Company is required to evaluate its investment in the unconsolidated entity for potential impairment and determine if the carrying value of its investment exceeds its fair value. An impairment charge is recorded when an impairment is deemed to be other-than-temporary. To determine whether an impairment is other-than-temporary, the Company considers whether it has the ability and intent to hold the investment until the carrying value is fully recovered. The evaluation of an investment in an unconsolidated entity for potential impairment requires the Company’s management to exercise significant judgment and to make certain assumptions. The use of different judgments and assumptions could result in different conclusions. No impairments of unconsolidated entities were identified during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 or 2014. Leasehold Improvements and Property and Equipment Leasehold improvements and property and equipment are reviewed for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of such assets may not be recoverable. If this review indicates that the carrying value of the asset is not recoverable, the Company records an impairment loss, measured at fair value by estimated discounted cash flows or market appraisals. The evaluation of leasehold improvements and property and equipment for potential impairment requires the Company’s management to exercise significant judgment and to make certain assumptions. The use of different judgments and assumptions could result in different conclusions.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cash and cash equivalents include cash in bank accounts, as well as investments in highly-liquid money market funds with original maturities of three months or less. The Company deposits cash with several high quality financial institutions. These deposits are guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) up to an insurance limit of $250,000. At times, the Company’s cash and cash equivalents may exceed federally insured levels. Although the Company bears risk on amounts in excess of those insured by the FDIC, it has not experienced and does not anticipate any losses due to the high quality of the institutions where the deposits are held.
Restricted Cash	The Company had $45.0 million and $59.8 million, respectively, in restricted cash as of December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015. Restricted cash primarily consists of reserves related to lease expirations, as well as maintenance, structural and debt service reserves. In accordance with certain debt agreements, rent from certain of the Company’s tenants is deposited directly into a lockbox account, from which the monthly debt service payments are disbursed to the lender and the excess funds are then disbursed to the Company.
Investment in Direct Financing Leases	The Company has acquired certain properties that are subject to leases that qualify as direct financing leases in accordance with U.S. GAAP due to the significance of the lease payments from the inception of the leases compared to the fair value of the property or due to bargain purchase options. Investments in direct financing leases represent the fair value of the remaining lease payments on the leases and the estimated fair value of any expected residual property value at the end of the lease term. The fair value of the remaining lease payments is estimated using a discounted cash flow analysis based on interest rates that would represent the Company’s incremental borrowing rate for similar types of debt. The expected residual property value at the end of the lease term is estimated using market data and assessments of the remaining useful lives of the properties at the end of the lease terms, among other factors. Income from direct financing leases is calculated using the effective interest method over the remaining term of the lease.
Mortgage Notes Receivable	The Company classifies its mortgage notes receivable as long-term investments as the Company intends to hold the mortgage notes receivable for the foreseeable future or until maturity. Mortgage notes receivable investments are carried on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets at amortized cost (unpaid principal balance adjusted for unearned discount or premium and mortgage notes receivable origination fees), net of any allowance for mortgage notes receivable losses. Discounts or premiums and mortgage notes receivable origination fees are amortized as a component of interest income using the effective interest method over the life of the respective mortgage notes receivable. From time to time, the Company may determine to sell a mortgage note receivable in which case it must reclassify the asset as held for sale. Mortgage notes receivable held for sale are carried at the lower of cost or estimated fair value. The Company also evaluates its mortgage notes receivable for possible impairment on a quarterly basis, as discussed in Note 8 – Mortgage Notes Receivable
Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities	The Company classifies all of its commercial mortgage-backed securities (“CMBS”) as available for sale for financial accounting purposes. Under U.S. GAAP, securities classified as available for sale are carried on the consolidated balance sheet at fair value with the net unrealized gains or losses included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), a component of stockholders’ equity. Any premiums or discounts on securities are amortized as a component of interest income using the effective interest method. The Company estimates fair value on all securities investments quarterly based on a variety of inputs. Under U.S. GAAP, securities where the fair value is less than the Company’s cost are deemed impaired and, therefore, must be measured for other-than-temporary impairment. If an impaired security (i.e., fair value is below cost) is intended to be sold or required to be sold prior to expected recovery of the impairment loss, the full amount of the loss must be recorded in earnings as an other-than-temporary impairment. Otherwise, temporary impairment losses are included in other comprehensive income (loss). In estimating credit or other-than-temporary impairment losses, management considers a variety of factors, including (1) the financial condition and near-term prospects of the credit, including credit rating of the security and the underlying tenant and an estimate of the likelihood, amount and expected timing of any default, (2) whether the Company expects to hold the investment for a period of time sufficient to allow for anticipated recovery in fair value, (3) the length of time and the extent to which the fair value has been below cost, (4) current market conditions, (5) expected cash flows from the underlying collateral and an estimate of underlying collateral values, and (6) subordination levels within the securitization pool. These estimates are highly subjective and could differ materially from actual results. From the period the Company acquired the CMBS through December 31, 2016, the Company had no other-than-temporary impairment losses.
Deferred Financing Costs	Deferred financing costs represent commitment fees, legal fees and other costs associated with obtaining commitments for financing. Pursuant to the Company’s adoption of the FASB ASU 2015-03, Interest – Imputation of Interest (Subtopic 835-30): Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs, the presentation of all deferred financing costs, other than those associated with the revolving credit facility, are presented on the consolidated balance sheets as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of the related debt liability rather than as an asset. These costs are amortized to interest expense over the terms of the respective financing agreements using the effective interest method. Unamortized deferred financing costs are written off when the associated debt is refinanced or repaid before maturity. Costs incurred in connection with potential financial transactions that are not completed are expensed in the period in which it is determined the financing will be completed.
Convertible Debt	The Convertible Notes are convertible into cash or shares of the Company’s Common Stock at the Company’s option. In accordance with U.S GAAP, the Convertible Notes are accounted for as a liability with a separate equity component recorded for the conversion option. A liability was recorded for the Convertible Notes on the respective issuance date at fair value based on a discounted cash flow analysis using current market rates for debt instruments with similar terms. The difference between the initial proceeds from the Convertible Notes and the estimated fair value of the debt instruments resulted in a debt discount, with an offset recorded to additional paid-in capital representing the equity component. The debt discount is being amortized to interest expense over the respective term of the Convertible Notes.
Derivatives Instruments	The Company may use derivative financial instruments to hedge all or a portion of the interest rate risk associated with its borrowings. Certain of the techniques used to hedge exposure to interest rate fluctuations may also be used to protect against declines in the market value of assets that result from general trends in debt markets. The principal objective of such agreements is to minimize the risks and/or costs associated with the Company’s operating and financial structure as well as to hedge specific anticipated transactions. The Company records all derivatives on the consolidated balance sheets at fair value. The accounting for changes in the fair value of derivatives depends on the intended use of the derivative, whether the Company has elected to designate a derivative in a hedging relationship and apply hedge accounting and whether the hedging relationship has satisfied the criteria necessary to apply hedge accounting. Derivatives designated and qualifying as a hedge of the exposure to changes in the fair value of an asset, liability, or firm commitment attributable to a particular risk, such as interest rate risk, are considered fair value hedges. Derivatives designated and qualifying as a hedge of the exposure to variability in expected future cash flows, or other types of forecasted transactions, are considered cash flow hedges. Derivatives may also be designated as hedges of the foreign currency exposure of a net investment in a foreign operation. Hedge accounting generally provides for the matching of the timing of gain or loss recognition on the hedging instrument with the recognition of the changes in the fair value of the hedged asset or liability that are attributable to the hedged risk in a fair value hedge or the earnings effect of the hedged forecasted transactions in a cash flow hedge. The Company may enter into derivative contracts that are intended to economically hedge certain of its risk, even though hedge accounting does not apply or the Company elects not to apply hedge accounting. The accounting for subsequent changes in the fair value of these derivatives depends on whether each has been designated and qualifies for hedge accounting treatment. If the Company elects not to apply hedge accounting treatment, any changes in the fair value of these derivative instruments is recognized immediately in loss on derivative instruments, net in the consolidated statements of operations and consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss). If the derivative is designated and qualifies for hedge accounting treatment, the change in the estimated fair value of the derivative is recorded in other comprehensive income (loss) to the extent that it is effective. Any ineffective portion of a derivative’s change in fair value will be immediately recognized in earnings.
Revenue Recognition - REI and Cole Capital	The Company’s revenues, which primarily consist of rental income and include rents that each tenant pays in accordance with the terms of each lease reported on a straight-line basis over the initial non-cancelable term of the lease, are recognized when earned and collectability is reasonably assured. When the Company acquires a property, the term of each existing lease is considered to commence as of the acquisition date for the purposes of this calculation. Since many of the leases provide for rental increases at specified intervals, straight-line basis accounting requires the Company to record a receivable, and include in revenues, straight-line rent receivables that the Company will only receive if the tenant makes all rent payments required through the expiration of the initial term of the lease. Straight-line rent receivables are included in rent and tenant receivables and other assets, net, in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 9 – Rent and Tenant Receivables and Other Assets, Net. Cost recoveries from tenants are included in operating expense reimbursements in the consolidated statements of operations in the period the related costs are incurred. The Company defers the revenue related to lease payments received from tenants in advance of their due dates. As of December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the Company had $57.6 million and $67.2 million, respectively, of deferred rental income, which is included in deferred rent, derivative and other liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets. The Company continually reviews receivables related to rent and unbilled rent receivables and determines collectability by taking into consideration the tenant’s payment history, the financial condition of the tenant, business conditions in the industry in which the tenant operates and economic conditions in the area in which the property is located. In the event that the collectability of a receivable is uncertain, the Company will record an increase in the allowance for uncollectible accounts in the consolidated balance sheets and in the consolidated statements of operations as a reduction to rental income. As of December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, the Company maintained an allowance for uncollectible accounts of $6.0 million and $6.6 million, respectively. Revenue Recognition – Cole Capital Revenue includes securities sales commissions, dealer manager fees, distribution and stockholder servicing fees, real estate acquisition fees, financing coordination fees, property management fees, advisory fees, asset management fees and performance fees for services relating to the Cole REITs’ offerings and the investment and management of their respective assets, in accordance with the respective dealer manager and advisory agreements. The Company records dealer manager fees, excluding those related to INAV (as defined in Note 3 – Segment Reporting), and securities sales commissions as revenue upon the sale of Cole REIT shares. Dealer manager fees from the sale of INAV shares and distribution and stockholder servicing fees are recorded as revenue when the fees are fixed or determinable. The Company records revenue related to acquisition and financing coordination fees upon completion of a transaction and advisory, asset and property management fees as services are performed. The Company is also reimbursed for certain costs incurred in providing these services. Securities sales commissions and dealer manager reimbursements are recorded as revenue as the expenses are incurred, as long as reimbursement is reasonably assured. The Company, in its sole discretion, may reallow all or a portion of its dealer manager fee to such participating broker-dealers as a marketing and due diligence expense reimbursement, based on factors such as the volume of shares issued by such participating broker-dealers and the amount of marketing support provided by such participating broker-dealers. The Company also reallows 100% of selling commissions earned to participating broker-dealers. Refer to Note 18 – Related Party Transactions and Arrangements for further discussion. In addition, the Company earns property management, asset management and disposition fees from certain joint ventures and other real estate programs.
Contingent Rental Income	The Company owns certain properties that have associated leases that require the tenant to pay contingent rental income based on a percentage of the tenant’s sales after the achievement of certain sales thresholds, which may be monthly, quarterly or annual targets. As a lessor, the Company defers the recognition of contingent rental income until the specified target that triggers the contingent rental income is achieved, or until such sales upon which percentage rent is based are known.
Program Development Costs	The Company pays for organization, registration and offering expenses associated with the sale of common stock of the Cole REITs, as further discussed in Note 18 – Related Party Transactions and Arrangements. The reimbursement of these expenses by the Cole REITs is limited to a certain percentage of the proceeds raised from their offerings, in accordance with their respective advisory agreements and charters. Such expenses paid by the Company on behalf of the Cole REITs in excess of these limits that are expected to be collected are recorded as program development costs, which are included in rent and tenant receivables and other assets, net on the consolidated balance sheets. The Company assesses the collectability of the program development costs, considering the offering period and historical and forecasted sales of shares under the Cole REITs’ respective offerings and reserves for any balances considered not collectible. Additional reserves are generally recorded if actual proceeds raised from the offerings and corresponding program development costs incurred differ from management’s assumptions.
Acquisition Related Expenses and Litigation, Merger and Other Non-routine Costs	All costs incurred as a result of a business combination are classified as acquisition related expenses or other non-routine transaction related expenses and expensed as incurred. Acquisition related expenses include legal and other transaction related costs incurred in connection with self-originated acquisitions, including purchases of portfolios. In addition, indirect costs, such as internal salaries, that are tracked and documented in a manner that clearly indicates that the activities driving the cost directly relate to activities necessary to complete, or effect, self-originating purchases are classified as acquisition related expenses. Similar costs incurred in relation to mergers (which are not considered self-originating purchases) and litigation resulting therefrom and other non-routine transactions are included in litigation, merger and other non-routine costs, net of insurance recoveries in the consolidated statements of operations. The Company has also incurred legal fees and other costs associated with the investigation conducted by the audit committee (the “Audit Committee”) of the General Partner’s board of directors (the “Audit Committee Investigation”) and the litigations and investigations resulting therefrom, which are considered non-routine. The Company has directors’ and officers’ insurance and the insurance carriers have paid certain defense costs subject to standard reservation of rights under the respective policies.
Due from Affiliates	The Company receives or may be entitled to receive compensation and reimbursement for services primarily relating to the Cole REITs’ offerings and the investment, management, financing and disposition of their respective assets.
Equity-based Compensation	The Company has an equity-based incentive award plan for non-executive directors, officers, other employees and advisors or consultants who provide services to the Company, as applicable, and a non-executive director restricted share plan, which are accounted for under U.S. GAAP for share-based payments. The expense for such awards is recognized over the vesting period or when the requirements for exercise of the award have been met.
Per Share Data	Income (loss) per basic share of Common Stock is calculated by dividing net income (loss) less dividends on unvested restricted shares of Common Stock and dividends on preferred stock by the weighted-average number of shares of Common Stock issued and outstanding during such period. Diluted income (loss) per share of Common Stock considers the effect of potentially dilutive shares of Common Stock outstanding during the period.
Reportable Segments	The Company has concluded that it has two reportable segments as it has organized its operations into two segments for management and internal financial reporting purposes, REI and Cole Capital. The identification of reportable segments requires the Company’s management to exercise certain judgments.
Income Taxes	The General Partner currently qualifies and has elected to be taxed as a REIT for U.S. federal income tax purposes under Sections 856 through 860 of the Internal Revenue Code. As a REIT, except as discussed below, the General Partner generally is not subject to federal income tax on taxable income that it distributes to its stockholders so long as it distributes at least 90% of its annual taxable income (computed without regard to the deduction for dividends paid and excluding net capital gains). REITs are subject to a number of other organizational and operational requirements. Even if the General Partner maintains its qualification for taxation as a REIT, it may be subject to certain state and local taxes on its income and property, federal income taxes on certain income and excise taxes on its undistributed income. The OP is classified as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes. As a partnership, the OP is not a taxable entity for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Instead, each partner in the OP is required to take into account its allocable share of the OP’s income, gains, losses, deductions and credits for each taxable year. However, the OP may be subject to certain state and local taxes on its income and property. As of December 31, 2016, the OP and the General Partner had no material uncertain income tax positions. The tax years subsequent to and including the fiscal year ended December 31, 2012 remain open to examination by the major taxing jurisdictions to which the OP, the General Partner, American Realty Capital Trust III, Inc. (“ARCT III”), CapLease, Inc. (“CapLease”), American Realty Capital Trust IV, Inc., (“ARCT IV”), Cole Real Estate Investments, Inc. (“Cole”) and Cole Credit Property Trust, Inc. are subject. Under the LPA, the OP is to conduct business in such a manner as to permit the General Partner at all times to qualify as a REIT. The Company conducts substantially all of its Cole Capital segment business activities through a TRS. A TRS is a subsidiary of a REIT that is subject to corporate federal, state and local income taxes, as applicable. The Company’s use of a TRS enables it to engage in certain business activities while complying with the REIT qualification requirements and to retain any income generated by these businesses for reinvestment without the requirement to distribute those earnings. The Company conducts all of its business in the United States, Puerto Rico and Canada and, as a result, it files income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction, the Canadian federal jurisdiction and various state and local jurisdictions. Certain of the Company’s inter-company transactions that have been eliminated in consolidation for financial accounting purposes are also subject to taxation. The Company provides for income taxes in accordance with current authoritative accounting and tax guidance. The tax provision or benefit related to significant or unusual items is recognized in the quarter in which those items occur. In addition, the effect of changes in enacted tax laws, rates or tax status is recognized in the quarter in which the change occurs. The accounting estimates used to compute the provision for or benefit from income taxes may change as new events occur, additional information is obtained or the tax environment changes.