CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Net loss	$ (6,711)	$ (6,727)	$ (106,195)
Other comprehensive loss
Unrealized loss on foreign currency translation	0	0	(786)
Unrealized gain (loss) on investment securities	0	0	0
Total other comprehensive loss	0	0	(786)
Comprehensive income (loss)	(6,711)	(6,727)	(106,981)
Comprehensive loss attributable to non-controlling interest	1,126	7,017	11,448
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to American Realty Investors, Inc.	$ (5,585)	$ 290	$ (95,533)