Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details 1) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Schedule of other assets [Line Items]
Deferred financing costs, net	$ 36,641	$ 37,312
Investments in unconsolidated real estate partnerships	16,930	18,753
Investments in securitization trust that holds Aimco property debt	58,408	59,145
Intangible assets, net	50,025	50,322
Deferred tax asset, net (Note 8)	30,353	44,828
Assets related to the legacy asset management business (Note 3)	163,849	176,756
Prepaid expenses, accounts receivable, deposits and other	146,065	156,662
Other assets per consolidated balance sheets	$ 502,271	$ 543,778