Note 14 - Supplemental Schedule of Non-Cash Investing / Financing Activities (Detail) - Non-Cash Investing and Financing Activities (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2013	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2012
Acquisition of real estate interests by assumption of mortgage debt	$ 36,715	$ 59,110
Acquisition of real estate interests by issuance of redeemable units	28,393
Issuance of restricted common stock	9,083	18,066
Surrender of restricted common stock	(1,949)	(1,023)
Disposition of real estate interests by assignment of debt		13,655
Disposition of real estate through the issuance of an unsecured obligation	3,513	1,750
Declaration of dividends paid in succeeding period	99,156	92,887	96,518
Consolidation of Joint Ventures:
Increase in real estate and other assets	114,986
Increase in mortgages payable	91,816
Noncash [Member]
Acquisition of real estate interests by issuance of redeemable units	$ 5,223