Other Significant Transactions (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Schedule of Financial Position Related to Legally Sold Portfolio [Line Items]
Real estate, net	$ 118,583	$ 120,175
Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash	30,334	29,046
Investment in unconsolidated real estate partnerships	10,335	10,817
Other assets	3,700	3,811
Total assets	162,952	163,849
Total indebtedness	106,971	106,032
Accrued and other liabilities	18,833	19,263
Total liabilities	125,804	125,295
Noncontrolling interests in consolidated real estate partnerships	223,806	233,008
Equity attributable to Aimco and the Aimco Operating Partnership	(25,451)	(27,721)
Total liabilities and equity	6,083,152	6,079,413
Legally Sold Portfolio, Not Derecognized for Accounting Purposes [Member]
Schedule of Financial Position Related to Legally Sold Portfolio [Line Items]
Noncontrolling interests in consolidated real estate partnerships	34,945	35,818
Equity attributable to Aimco and the Aimco Operating Partnership	2,203	2,736
Total liabilities and equity	$ 162,952	$ 163,849