Note 14 - Supplemental Schedule of Non-Cash Investing/Financing Activities (Details) - Non-Cash Investing and Financing Activities (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013
Note 14 - Supplemental Schedule of Non-Cash Investing/Financing Activities (Details) - Non-Cash Investing and Financing Activities [Line Items]
Acquisition of real estate interests by assumption of mortgage debt	$ 89,718	$ 36,715
Acquisition of real estate interests by issuance of redeemable units/partnership interest	4,943	5,223
Proceeds held in escrow through sale of real estate interests	14,885
Issuance of restricted common stock	11,451	9,083
Disposition of real estate through the issuance of an unsecured obligation		3,513
Declaration of dividends paid in succeeding period	104,670	99,156	104,496
Consolidation of Joint Ventures:
Increase in real estate and other assets	30,912	114,986
Increase in mortgages payable	23,269	91,816
Non-cash [Member]
Note 14 - Supplemental Schedule of Non-Cash Investing/Financing Activities (Details) - Non-Cash Investing and Financing Activities [Line Items]
Surrender of restricted common stock	$ (2,839)	$ (1,949)