Partners Capital (Details 1) (AIMCO PROPERTIES, L.P, USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
AIMCO PROPERTIES, L.P
Increase (Decrease) in Temporary Equity [Roll Forward]
Balance at January 1	$ 80,046	$ 83,384	$ 103,428
Preferred distributions	(6,423)	(6,496)	(6,683)
Redemption of preferred units	(93)	(3,338)	(20,044)
Net income attributable to preferred noncontrolling interests in Aimco Operating Partnership	6,423	6,496	6,683
Balance at December 31	$ 79,953	$ 80,046	$ 83,384

Carrying amount, attributable to parent, of an entity's issued and outstanding stock which is not included within permanent equity. Temporary equity is a security with redemption features that are outside the control of the issuer, is not classified as an asset or liability in conformity with GAAP, and is not mandatorily redeemable. Includes any type of security that is redeemable at a fixed or determinable price or on a fixed or determinable date or dates, is redeemable at the option of the holder, or has conditions for redemption which are not solely within the control of the issuer. Includes stock with a put option held by an ESOP and stock redeemable by a holder only in the event of a change in control of the issuer.

No definition available.

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Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	instant