Note 16 - Supplemental Schedule of Non-Cash Investing / Financing Activities (Detail) - Non-Cash Investing And Financing Activities (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011	Dec. 31, 2011
Acquisition of real estate interests by assumption of mortgage debt	$ 159,198	$ 51,749
Issuance of restricted common stock	18,066	4,941
Surrender of restricted common stock	(2,073)	(596)
Disposition of real estate interests by assignment of debt	13,655
Disposition of real estate through the issuance of an unsecured obligation	1,750
Declaration of dividends paid in succeeding period	$ 94,856	$ 88,090	$ 92,159