Disposals and Discontinued Operations (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013
Components of income from discontinued operations including portions attributable to Aimco and noncontrolling interests
Rental and other property revenues		$ 18,647		$ 37,267
Property operating expenses		(8,075)		(16,628)
Depreciation and amortization		(4,838)		(9,718)
(Provision for) recovery of real estate impairment losses		(103)		124
Operating income		5,631		11,045
Interest income		115		193
Interest expense		(4,172)		(8,373)
Income before gain on dispositions of real estate and income tax		1,574		2,865
Gain on dispositions of real estate		2,663		5,992
Income tax benefit		265		140
Income from discontinued operations, net	0	4,502	0	8,997
Loss from discontinued operations attributable to noncontrolling interests in consolidated real estate partnerships		5,313		7,530
Income from discontinued operations attributable to the Aimco Operating Partnership		9,815		16,527
Income from discontinued operations attributable to noncontrolling interests in Aimco Operating Partnership		(550)		(866)
Income from discontinued operations attributable to Aimco	$ 0	$ 9,265	$ 0	$ 15,661