CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ 322	$ (7,504)	$ 41,977
Comprehensive income attributable to non-controlling interest	(285)	(132)	(399)
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Transcontinental Realty Investors, Inc.	$ 37	$ (7,636)	$ 41,578