Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	Dec. 31, 2014
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Basis of Consolidation	Basis of Consolidation Our consolidated financial statements reflect all of our accounts, including those of our controlled subsidiaries. The portion of equity in a consolidated subsidiary that is not attributable, directly or indirectly, to us is presented as noncontrolling interests. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated. We have an investment in a tenancy-in-common interest in various underlying international properties. Consolidation of this investment is not required as such interest does not qualify as a VIE and does not meet the control requirement required for consolidation. Accordingly, we account for this investment using the equity method of accounting. We use the equity method of accounting because the shared decision-making involved in a tenancy-in-common interest investment provides us with significant influence on the operating and financial decisions of this investment. Additionally, we own interests in single-tenant net-leased properties leased to companies through noncontrolling interests in partnerships and limited liability companies that we do not control, but over which we exercise significant influence. We account for these investments under the equity method of accounting. At times, the carrying value of our equity investments may fall below zero for certain investments. We intend to fund our share of the jointly-owned investments’ future operating deficits should the need arise. However, we have no legal obligation to pay for any of the liabilities of such investments nor do we have any legal obligation to fund operating deficits. At December 31, 2014, none of our equity investments had carrying values below zero.
Accounting for Acquisitions	Accounting for Acquisitions In accordance with the guidance for business combinations, we determine whether a transaction or other event is a business combination, which requires that the assets acquired and liabilities assumed constitute a business. Each business combination is then accounted for by applying the acquisition method. If the assets acquired are not a business, we account for the transaction or other event as an asset acquisition. Under both methods, we recognize the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed, and any noncontrolling interest in the acquired entity. In addition, for transactions that are business combinations, we evaluate the existence of goodwill or a gain from a bargain purchase. We capitalize acquisition-related costs and fees associated with asset acquisitions. We immediately expense acquisition-related costs and fees associated with business combinations. Purchase Price Allocation When we acquire properties with leases classified as operating leases, we allocate the purchase price to the tangible and intangible assets and liabilities acquired based on their estimated fair values. The tangible assets consist of land, buildings, and site improvements. The intangible assets include the above- and below-market value of leases and the value of in-place leases, which includes the value of tenant relationships. Land is typically valued utilizing the sales comparison, or market, approach. Buildings are valued, as if vacant, using the cost and/or income approach. Site improvements are valued using the cost approach. The fair value of real estate is determined by reference to portfolio appraisals, which determines their values, on a property level, by applying a discounted cash flow analysis to the estimated net operating income for each property in the portfolio during the remaining anticipated lease term, and the estimated residual value. The estimated residual value of each property is based on a hypothetical sale of the property upon expiration of a lease factoring in the re-tenanting of such property at estimated current market rental rates, applying a selected capitalization rate and deducting estimated costs of sale. The discount rates and residual capitalization rates used to value the properties are selected based on several factors, including the creditworthiness of the lessees, industry surveys, property type, location, and age, current lease rates relative to market lease rates, and anticipated lease duration. In the case where a tenant has a purchase option deemed to be materially favorable to the tenant, or the tenant has long-term renewal options at rental rates below estimated market rental rates, we include the value of the exercise of such purchase option or long-term renewal options in its determination of residual value. For self-storage assets, the hypothetical sales price is derived by capitalizing the estimated net operating income at the end of the expected holding period. Estimated net operating income factors in the gross potential revenue of the business less economic vacancy rates and expected operational expenses. Where a property is deemed to have excess land, the discounted cash flow analysis includes the estimated excess land value at the assumed expiration of the lease, based upon an analysis of comparable land sales or listings in the general market area of the property grown at estimated market growth rates through the year of lease expiration. See Revenue Recognition and Depreciation below for a discussion of our significant accounting policies related to tangible assets. We record above- and below-market lease intangible values for acquired properties based on the present value (using a discount rate reflecting the risks associated with the leases acquired, including consideration of the credit of the lessee) of the difference between (i) the contractual rents to be paid pursuant to the leases negotiated or in place at the time of acquisition of the properties and (ii) our estimate of fair market lease rates for the property or equivalent property, both of which are measured over a period that includes renewal options that have rental rates below estimated market rental rates. We amortize the above-market lease intangible value as a reduction of rental income over the estimated market lease term. We amortize the below-market lease intangible value as an increase to rental income over the initial term and any below-market renewal periods in the respective leases. We include the value of below-market leases in Below-market rent and other intangible liabilities, net in the consolidated financial statements. We include the amortization of below-market ground lease intangibles in Property expenses in the consolidated financial statements. We include the amortization of above-market ground lease intangibles in Depreciation and amortization in the consolidated financial statements. The value of any in-place lease is estimated to be equal to the acquirer’s avoidance of costs, as a result of having tenants in place, that would be necessary to lease the property for a lease term equal to the remaining primary in-place lease term and the value of investment grade tenancy. The cost avoidance is derived first by determining the in-place lease term on the subject lease. Then, based on our review of the market, the cost to be borne by a property owner to replicate a market lease to the remaining in-place term is estimated. These costs consist of: (i) rent lost during downtime (i.e. assumed periods of vacancy), (ii) estimated expenses that would be incurred by the property owner during periods of vacancy, (iii) rent concessions (i.e. free rent), (iv) leasing commissions, and (v) tenant improvement allowances given to tenants. We determine these values using our estimates or by relying in part upon third-party appraisals. We amortize the value of in-place lease intangibles to expense over the remaining initial term of each lease. The amortization period for intangibles does not exceed the remaining depreciable life of the building. If a lease is terminated, we charge the unamortized portion of above- and below-market lease values to lease revenues, and in-place lease values to amortization expense. When we acquire leveraged properties, the fair value of the related debt instruments is determined using a discounted cash flow model with rates that take into account the credit of the tenants, where applicable, and interest rate risk. Such resulting premium or discount is amortized over the remaining term of the obligation. We also consider the value of the underlying collateral, taking into account the quality of the collateral, the credit quality of the tenant, the time until maturity, and the current interest rate.
Basis of Consolidation, Variable Interest Entity	When we obtain an economic interest in an entity, we evaluate the entity to determine if it is deemed a VIE, and, if so, whether we are deemed to be the primary beneficiary and are therefore required to consolidate the entity. We apply accounting guidance for consolidation of VIEs to certain entities in which the equity investors do not have the characteristics of a controlling financial interest or do not have sufficient equity at risk for the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support from other parties. Fixed price purchase and renewal options within a lease as well as certain decision-making rights within a loan can cause us to consider an entity a VIE. Significant judgment is required to determine whether a VIE should be consolidated. We review the contractual arrangements provided for in the partnership agreement or other related contracts to determine whether the entity is considered a VIE, and to establish whether we have any variable interests in the VIE. We then compare our variable interests, if any, to those of the other variable interest holders to determine which party is the primary beneficiary of a VIE based on whether the entity (i) has the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the economic performance of the VIE, and (ii) has the obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits of the VIE that could potentially be significant to the VIE. For an entity that is not considered to be a VIE but rather a voting interest entity, the general partners in a limited partnership (or similar entity) are presumed to control the entity regardless of the level of their ownership and, accordingly, may be required to consolidate the entity. We evaluate the partnership agreements or other relevant contracts to determine whether there are provisions in the agreements that would overcome this presumption. If the agreements provide the limited partners with either (i) the substantive ability to dissolve or liquidate the limited partnership or otherwise remove the general partners without cause or (ii) substantive participating rights, the limited partners’ rights overcome the presumption of control by a general partner of the limited partnership, and, therefore, the general partner must account for its investment in the limited partnership using the equity method of accounting.
Goodwill	Goodwill In the case of a business combination, after identifying all tangible and intangible assets and liabilities, the excess consideration paid over the fair value of the assets and liabilities acquired and assumed, respectively, represents goodwill. We allocated goodwill to our sole Real Estate reporting unit. In the event we dispose of a property that constitutes a business under GAAP, we allocate a portion of the reporting unit’s goodwill to that business in determining the gain or loss on the disposal of the business. The amount of goodwill allocated to the business is based on the relative fair value of the business to the fair value of the reporting unit. All or a portion of the goodwill may be attributed to foreign deferred tax liabilities assumed in the business combination. The deferred tax liability results from the excess of basis under GAAP over the tax basis of the asset in the taxing jurisdiction.
Real Estate	Real Estate and Operating Real Estate We carry land, buildings, and personal property at cost less accumulated depreciation. We capitalize improvements and significant renovations that increase the useful life of the properties, while we expense replacements, maintenance, and repairs that do not improve or extend the lives of the respective assets as incurred. Real Estate Under Construction For properties under construction, operating expenses, including interest charges and other property expenses (e.g. real estate taxes), are capitalized rather than expensed. We capitalize interest by applying the interest rate applicable to outstanding borrowings to the average amount of accumulated qualifying expenditures for properties under construction during the period.
Acquisition, Development and Construction Loans	Acquisition, Development, and Construction Loans We provide funding to developers for the acquisition, development, and construction of real estate. Under the ADC Arrangement, we may participate in the residual profits of the project through the sale or refinancing of the property. We evaluate these arrangements to determine if they have characteristics similar to a loan or if the characteristics are more similar to a joint venture or partnership, such as participating in the risks and rewards of the project as an owner or an investment partner. For those arrangements with characteristics of a loan, we follow the accounting guidance for loans and disclose within our Finance Receivables footnote (Note 6). When we determine that the characteristics are more similar to a jointly-owned investment or partnership, we account for those arrangements under the equity method of accounting (Note 7). Once the investment or partnership begins operations, we use the hypothetical liquidation at book value method to calculate income or loss (which considers the principal and interest under the loan to be a preferential return).
Assets Held for Sale	Assets Held for Sale We classify those assets that are associated with operating leases as held for sale when we have entered into a contract to sell the property, all material due diligence requirements have been satisfied, and we believe it is probable that the disposition will occur within one year. Assets held for sale are recorded at the lower of carrying value or estimated fair value (less estimated cost to sell). On January 1, 2014 we adopted Accounting Standards Update, or ASU, 2014-08 and, other than the properties classified as held for sale prior to adoption, no other sales qualify as discontinued operations. If circumstances arise that we previously considered unlikely and, as a result, we decide not to sell a property previously classified as held for sale, we reclassify the property as held and used. We measure and record a property that is reclassified as held and used at the lower of (i) its carrying amount before the property was classified as held for sale, adjusted for any depreciation expense that would have been recognized had the property been continuously classified as held and used or (ii) the estimated fair value at the date of the subsequent decision not to sell. We recognize gains and losses on the sale of properties when, among other criteria, we no longer have continuing involvement, the parties are bound by the terms of the contract, all consideration has been exchanged, and all conditions precedent to closing have been performed. At the time the sale is consummated, a gain or loss is recognized as the difference between the sale price, less any selling costs, and the carrying value of the property.
Notes Receivable	Notes Receivable For investments in mortgage notes and loan participations, the loans are initially reflected at acquisition cost, which consists of the outstanding balance, net of the acquisition discount or premium. We amortize any discount or premium as an adjustment to increase or decrease, respectively, the yield realized on these loans over the life of the loan. As such, differences between carrying value and principal balances outstanding do not represent embedded losses or gains as we generally plan to hold such loans to maturity. Our note receivable is included in Other assets, net in the consolidated financial statements.
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts	Allowance for Doubtful Accounts We consider rents due under leases and payments under notes receivable to be past-due or delinquent when a contractually required rent, principal, or interest payment is not remitted in accordance with the provisions of the underlying agreement. We evaluate each account individually and set up an allowance when, based upon current information and events, it is probable that we will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the existing contractual terms and the amount can be reasonably estimated.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cash and Cash Equivalents We consider all short-term, highly-liquid investments that are both readily convertible to cash and have a maturity of three months or less at the time of purchase to be cash equivalents. Items classified as cash equivalents include commercial paper and money market funds. Our cash and cash equivalents are held in the custody of several financial institutions, and these balances, at times, exceed federally insurable limits. We seek to mitigate this risk by depositing funds only with major financial institutions.
Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities	Debt Securities We have investments, such as CMBS and debentures, that were designated as securities held to maturity on the date of acquisition, in accordance with current accounting guidance. We carry these securities at cost, net of unamortized premiums and discounts, which are recognized in interest income using an effective yield or “interest” method, and assess them for other-than-temporary impairment on a quarterly basis.
Deferred Charges	Offering Costs During our offering periods, we accrued costs incurred in connection with the raising of capital as deferred offering costs. Upon receipt of offering proceeds, we charged the deferred costs to equity and reimbursed the advisor for costs incurred (Note 4). Such reimbursements did not exceed regulatory cost limitations. Other Assets and Liabilities We include prepaid expenses, deferred rental income, tenant receivables, deferred charges, escrow balances held by lenders, restricted cash balances, debt securities, derivative assets, and corporate fixed assets in Other assets, net in the consolidated financial statements. We include derivative instruments, amounts held on behalf of tenants, and deferred revenue in Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities in the consolidated financial statements. Deferred charges are costs incurred in connection with mortgage financings and refinancings that are amortized over the terms of the mortgages and included in Interest expense in the consolidated financial statements. Deferred rental income is generally the aggregate cumulative difference for operating leases between scheduled rents that vary during the lease term and rent recognized on a straight-line basis. Deferred Acquisition Fees Payable to Affiliate Fees payable to the advisor for structuring and negotiating investments and related mortgage financing on our behalf are included in Due to affiliates. A portion of these fees is payable in three equal annual installments following the quarter on which a property was purchased. The timing of the payment of such fees is impacted by certain performance criterion (Note 4).
Treasury Stock	Treasury Stock Treasury stock is recorded at cost under our redemption plan, pursuant to which we may elect to redeem shares at the request of our stockholders, subject to certain exceptions, conditions, and limitations. The maximum amount of shares purchasable by us in any period depends on a number of factors and is at the discretion of our board of directors.
Noncontrolling Interests	Noncontrolling Interests We accounted for the special general partner interest in our Operating Partnership as a noncontrolling interest (Note 4). The special general partner interest in our Operating Partnership entitles the Special General Partner to cash distributions and, in the event there is a termination or non-renewal of the advisory agreement, redemption rights. Cash distributions to the Special General Partner are accounted for as an allocation to net income attributable to noncontrolling interest.
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition Real Estate Leased to Others We lease real estate to others primarily on a triple-net lease basis whereby the tenant is generally responsible for operating expenses relating to the property, including property taxes, insurance, maintenance, repairs, and improvements. We charge expenditures for maintenance and repairs, including routine betterments, to operations as incurred. For the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, our tenants, pursuant to their lease obligations, have made direct payment to the taxing authorities of real estate taxes of approximately $22.2 million, $23.2 million, and $14.1 million, respectively. Substantially all of our leases provide for either scheduled rent increases, periodic rent adjustments based on formulas indexed to changes in the CPI or similar indices, or percentage rents. CPI-based adjustments are contingent on future events and are therefore not included as minimum rent in straight-line rent calculations. We recognize rents from percentage rents as reported by the lessees, which is after the level of sales requiring a rental payment to us is reached. Percentage rents were insignificant for the periods presented. We account for leases as operating or direct financing leases as described below: Operating leases — We record real estate at cost less accumulated depreciation; we recognize future minimum rental revenue on a straight-line basis over the non-cancelable lease term of the related leases and charge expenses to operations as incurred (Note 5). Direct financing method — We record leases accounted for under the direct financing method as a net investment (Note 6). The net investment is equal to the cost of the leased assets. The difference between the cost and the gross investment, which includes the residual value of the leased asset and the future minimum rents, is unearned income. We defer and amortize unearned income to income over the lease term so as to produce a constant periodic rate of return on our net investment in the lease.
Asset Retirement Obligations	Asset Retirement Obligations Asset retirement obligations relate to the legal obligations associated with the retirement of long-lived assets that result from the acquisition, construction, development, and/or normal operation of a long-lived asset. The fair value of a liability for an asset retirement obligation is recorded in the period in which it is incurred and the cost of such liability is recorded as an increase in the carrying amount of the related long-lived asset by the same amount. The liability is accreted each period and the capitalized cost is depreciated over the estimated remaining life of the related long-lived asset. Revisions to estimated retirement obligations result in adjustments to the related capitalized asset and corresponding liability. In order to determine the fair value of the asset retirement obligations, we make certain estimates and assumptions including, among other things, projected cash flows, the borrowing interest rate, and an assessment of market conditions that could significantly impact the estimated fair value. These estimates and assumptions are subjective.
Interest Capitalization	Interest Capitalized in Connection with Real Estate Under Construction Operating real estate is stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Interest directly related to build-to-suit projects is capitalized. We consider a build-to-suit project as substantially completed upon the completion of improvements. If discrete portions of a project are substantially completed and occupied, and other portions have not yet reached that stage, the substantially completed portions are accounted for separately. We allocate costs incurred between the portions under construction and the portions substantially completed and only capitalize those costs associated with the portion under construction. We determine an interest rate to be applied for capitalizing interest based on the interest rate of any debt linked to the project or a blended rate of the mortgages outstanding in the company if there is no debt on the project.
Depreciation	Depreciation We compute depreciation of building and related improvements using the straight-line method over the estimated remaining useful lives of the properties (not to exceed 40 years) and furniture, fixtures, and equipment (generally up to seven years). We compute depreciation of tenant improvements using the straight-line method over the estimated useful life.
Impairments	Impairments We periodically assess whether there are any indicators that the value of our long-lived real estate and related intangible assets may be impaired or that their carrying value may not be recoverable. These impairment indicators include, but are not limited to, the vacancy of a property that is not subject to a lease, a lease default by a tenant that is experiencing financial difficulty, the termination of a lease by a tenant, or the rejection of a lease in a bankruptcy proceeding. We may incur impairment charges on long-lived assets, including real estate, direct financing leases, assets held for sale, and equity investments in real estate. We may also incur impairment charges on debt securities and goodwill. Our policies for evaluating whether these assets are impaired are presented below. Real Estate For real estate assets held for investment, and related intangible assets in which an impairment indicator is identified, we follow a two-step process to determine whether an asset is impaired and to determine the amount of the charge. First, we compare the carrying value of the property’s asset group to the estimated future net undiscounted cash flow that we expect the property’s asset group will generate, including any estimated proceeds from the eventual sale of the property’s asset group. The undiscounted cash flow analysis requires us to make our best estimate of, among other things, market rents, residual values, and holding periods. We estimate market rents and residual values using market information from outside sources, such as broker quotes or recent comparable sales. As our investment objective is to hold properties on a long-term basis, holding periods used in the undiscounted cash flow analysis are generally ten years, but may be less if our intent is to hold a property for less than ten years. Depending on the assumptions made and estimates used, the future cash flow projected in the evaluation of long-lived assets and associated intangible assets can vary within a range of outcomes. We consider the likelihood of possible outcomes in determining our estimate of future cash flows and, if warranted, we apply a probability-weighted method to the different possible scenarios. If the future net undiscounted cash flow of the property’s asset group is less than the carrying value, the property’s asset group is considered not recoverable. We then measure the impairment loss as the excess of the carrying value of the property’s asset group over its estimated fair value. The property’s asset group’s estimated fair value is primarily determined using market information from outside sources, such as broker quotes or recent comparable sales. In cases where the available market information is not deemed appropriate, we perform a future net cash flow analysis discounted for inherent risk associated with each asset to determine an estimated fair value. Assets Held for Sale We classify real estate assets that are accounted for as operating leases as held for sale when we have entered into a contract to sell the property, all material due diligence requirements have been satisfied, and we believe it is probable that the disposition will occur within one year. When we classify an asset as held for sale, we compare the asset’s fair value (less estimated cost to sell) to its carrying value, and if the fair value (less estimated cost to sell) is less than the property’s carrying value, we reduce the carrying value to the fair value (less estimated cost to sell). We will continue to review the property for subsequent changes in the fair value and may recognize an additional impairment charge if warranted. Direct Financing Leases We review our direct financing leases at least annually to determine whether there has been an other-than-temporary decline in the current estimate of residual value of the property. The residual value is our estimate of what we could realize upon the sale of the property at the end of the lease term, based on market information. If this review indicates that a decline in residual value has occurred that is other-than-temporary, we recognize an impairment charge equal to the difference between the fair value and carrying amount of the residual value. When we enter into a contract to sell the real estate assets that are recorded as direct financing leases, we evaluate whether it is probable that the disposition will occur. If we determine that the disposition is probable, we assess the carrying amount for recoverability and, if as a result of the decreased expected cash flows we determine that our carrying value is not fully recoverable, we record an allowance for credit losses to reflect the change in the estimate of the future cash flows that includes rent. Accordingly, the net investment balance is written down to fair value. Equity Investments in Real Estate We evaluate our equity investments in real estate on a periodic basis to determine if there are any indicators that the value of our equity investment may be impaired and whether or not that impairment is other-than-temporary. To the extent an impairment has occurred and is determined to be other-than-temporary, we measure the charge as the excess of the carrying value of our investment over its estimated fair value, which is determined by calculating our share of the estimated fair market value of the underlying net assets based on the terms of the applicable partnership or joint venture agreement. For our equity investments in real estate, we calculate the estimated fair value of the underlying investment’s real estate or net investment in direct financing lease as described in Real Estate and Direct Financing Leases above. The fair value of the underlying investment’s debt, if any, is calculated based on market interest rates and other market information. The fair value of the underlying investment’s other financial assets and liabilities (excluding net investments in direct financing leases) have fair values that generally approximate their carrying values. Goodwill We evaluate goodwill for possible impairment at least annually or upon the occurrence of a triggering event. A triggering event is an event or circumstance that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying amount, including sales of properties defined as businesses for which the relative size of the sold property is significant to the reporting unit, which could impact our goodwill impairment calculations. The goodwill impairment test is a three-step test. Step zero is a qualitative analysis whereas steps one and two are quantitative. If step zero is not considered, the first step is to identify whether the value of the recorded goodwill is impaired. If it is determined that goodwill is impaired, the second step seeks to measure the amount of impairment. We applied step zero to our analysis. In this step, qualitative factors are assessed to determine if it is more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying value. In this step, the macroeconomic environment in which the reporting unit operates is analyzed for any significant changes, such as deterioration in a market in which we operate or deterioration in overall financial performance, such as declining cash flows. Also, entity-specific changes are analyzed, such as changes in management, strategy, or composition of reporting unit. If, after assessing the overall macroeconomic environment, it is unlikely that the fair value is less than the carrying value, steps one and two do not need to be performed. Debt Securities We have investments in debt securities that are designated as securities held to maturity. On a quarterly basis, we evaluate our debt securities to determine if they have experienced an other-than temporary decline in value. If the market value of the debt security is below its amortized cost, and we either intend to sell the security or it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell the security before its anticipated recovery, we record the entire amount of the other-than-temporary impairment charge in earnings. Additionally, we consider the significance of the decline and other factors contributing to the decline, such as delinquency, expected credit losses, the length of time that the fair market value has been below cost, and expected market conditions (including volatility), in our analysis of whether a decline is other than temporary. We do not intend to sell our debt securities and we do not expect that it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell these investments before their anticipated recovery. However, if we determine that an other-than-temporary impairment has occurred, we calculate the total impairment charge as the difference between the carrying value of our debt securities and their estimated fair value. We then separate the other-than-temporary impairment charge into the non-credit loss portion and the credit loss portion. We determine the non-credit loss portion by analyzing the changes in spreads on high credit quality debt securities as compared with the changes in spreads on the debt securities being analyzed for other-than-temporary impairment. We generally perform this analysis over a time period from the date of acquisition of the debt securities through the date of the analysis. Any resulting loss is deemed to represent losses due to the illiquidity of the debt securities and is recorded as a separate component of other comprehensive loss in equity. We then measure the credit loss portion of the other-than-temporary impairment as the residual amount of the other-than-temporary impairment. We record the non-credit loss portion in earnings. Following recognition of the other-than-temporary impairment, the difference between the new cost basis of the debt securities and cash flows expected to be collected is accreted to Other interest income over the remaining expected lives of the securities.
Foreign Currency	Foreign Currency Translation We have interests in real estate investments in Europe, for which the functional currency is the euro, the British pound sterling, or the Norwegian krone, and in Asia, for which the functional currency is the Japanese yen or the Indian rupee. We perform the translation from the euro, the British pound sterling, the Norwegian krone, the Japanese yen, or the Indian rupee to the U.S. dollar for assets and liabilities using current exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date and for revenue and expense accounts using a weighted-average exchange rate during the year. We report the gains and losses resulting from such translation as a component of other comprehensive income in equity. These translation gains and losses are released to net income when we have substantially exited from all investments in the related currency. Transaction Gains or Losses A transaction gain or loss (measured from the transaction date or the most recent intervening balance sheet date, whichever is later), realized upon settlement of a foreign currency transaction will generally be included in net income for the period in which the transaction is settled. Also, intercompany foreign currency transactions that are scheduled for settlement, consisting primarily of accrued interest and the translation to the reporting currency of subordinated intercompany debt with scheduled principal payments, are included in the determination of net income. Intercompany foreign currency transactions of a long-term nature (that is, settlement is not planned or anticipated in the foreseeable future), in which the entities to the transactions are consolidated or accounted for by the equity method in our consolidated financial statements, are not included in net income but are reported as a component of other comprehensive income in equity. Net realized gains or (losses) are recognized on foreign currency transactions in connection with the transfer of cash from foreign operations of subsidiaries to the parent company. For the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, we recognized net realized (losses) gains on such transactions of $(2.9) million, $3.5 million,
Derivative Instruments	Derivative Instruments We measure derivative instruments at fair value and record them as assets or liabilities, depending on our rights or obligations under the applicable derivative contract. Derivatives that are not designated as hedges must be adjusted to fair value through earnings. For a derivative designated and that qualified as a cash flow hedge, the effective portion of the change in fair value of the derivative is recognized in Other comprehensive (loss) income until the hedged item is recognized in earnings. The ineffective portion of a derivative’s change in fair value is immediately recognized in earnings. For a derivative designated and that qualified as a net investment hedge, the effective portion of the change in the fair value and/or the net settlement of the derivative are reported in Other comprehensive (loss) income as part of the cumulative foreign currency translation adjustment. The ineffective portion of the change in fair value of the derivative is recognized directly in earnings. Amounts are reclassified out of Other comprehensive (loss) income into earnings when the hedged investment is either sold or substantially liquidated. We use the portfolio exception in Accounting Standards Codification 820-10-35-18D, Application to Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities with Offsetting Positions in Market Risk or Counterparty Credit Risk, with respect to measuring counterparty credit risk for all of our derivative transactions subject to master netting arrangements.
Income Taxes	Income Taxes We have elected to be taxed as a REIT under Sections 856 through 860 of the Internal Revenue Code. In order to maintain our qualification as a REIT, we are required, among other things, to distribute at least 90% of our REIT net taxable income to our stockholders and meet certain tests regarding the nature of our income and assets. As a REIT, we are not subject to federal income taxes on our income and gains that we distribute to our stockholders as long as we satisfy certain requirements, principally relating to the nature of our income and the level of our distributions, as well as other factors. We believe that we have operated, and we intend to continue to operate, in a manner that allows us to continue to qualify as a REIT. We conduct business in various states and municipalities within the United States, Europe, and Asia and, as a result, we or one or more of our subsidiaries file income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction and various state and certain foreign jurisdictions. As a result, we are subject to certain foreign, state, and local taxes and a provision for such taxes is included in the consolidated financial statements. We elect to treat certain of our corporate subsidiaries as TRSs. In general, a TRS may perform additional services for our tenants and generally may engage in any real estate or non-real estate-related business (except for the operation or management of health care facilities or lodging facilities or providing to any person, under a franchise, license or otherwise, rights to any brand name under which any lodging facility or health care facility is operated). A TRS is subject to corporate federal income tax. Deferred income taxes are recorded for the corporate subsidiary TRSs and for the foreign taxes in those respective jurisdictions based on earnings reported. The current provision for income taxes differs from the amounts currently payable because of temporary differences in the recognition of certain income and expense items for financial reporting and tax reporting purposes. Deferred income taxes are computed under the asset and liability method. The asset and liability method requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of temporary differences between tax bases and financial bases of assets and liabilities (Note 14). Significant judgment is required in determining our tax provision and in evaluating our tax positions. We establish tax reserves based on a benefit recognition model, which we believe could result in a greater amount of benefit (and a lower amount of reserve) being initially recognized in certain circumstances. Provided that the tax position is deemed more likely than not of being sustained, we recognize the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50 percent likely of being ultimately realized upon settlement. We derecognize the tax position when it is no longer more likely than not of being sustained. Our earnings and profits, which determine the taxability of distributions to stockholders, differ from net income reported for financial reporting purposes due primarily to differences in depreciation, including hotel properties, and timing differences of rent recognition and certain expense deductions, for federal income tax purposes. Deferred income taxes relate primarily to our TRSs and foreign properties, and are accounted for using the asset and liability method. Under this method, deferred income taxes are recognized for temporary differences between the financial reporting bases of assets and liabilities of our TRSs and their respective tax bases, and for their operating loss and tax credit carryforwards based on enacted tax rates expected to be in effect when such amounts are realized or settled. However, deferred tax assets are recognized only to the extent that it is more likely than not that they will be realized based on consideration of available evidence, including tax planning strategies and other factors. Deferred Income Taxes We recognize deferred income taxes in certain of our subsidiaries taxable in the United States or in foreign jurisdictions. Deferred income taxes are generally the result of temporary differences (items that are treated differently for tax purposes than for GAAP purposes as described in Note 14). In addition, deferred tax assets arise from unutilized tax net operating losses generated in prior years. We provide a valuation allowance against our deferred income tax assets when we believe that it is more likely than not that all or some portion of the deferred income tax asset may not be realized. Whenever a change in circumstances causes a change in the estimated realizability of the related deferred income tax asset, the resulting increase or decrease in the valuation allowance is included in deferred income tax expense (benefit).
Earnings Per Share	Earnings Per Share We have a simple equity capital structure with only common stock outstanding. As a result, earnings per share, as presented, represents both basic and dilutive per-share amounts for all periods presented in the consolidated financial statements. Income per basic share of common stock is calculated by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of shares of common stock issued and outstanding during such period.
Use of Estimates	Use of Estimates The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts and the disclosure of contingent amounts in our consolidated financial statements and the accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Recent Accounting Requirements	ASU 2015-02, Consolidation (Topic 810). ASU 2015-02 changes the analysis that a reporting entity must perform to determine whether it should consolidate certain types of legal entities. Specifically, ASU 2015-02 modifies the evaluation of whether limited partnerships and similar legal entities are VIEs or voting interest entities, eliminates the presumption that a general partner should consolidate a limited partnership, and affects the evaluation of fee arrangements in the primary beneficiary determination. ASU 2015-02 is effective for periods beginning after December 15, 2015 and early adoption is permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact of ASU 2015-02 on our consolidated financial statements. ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606). ASU 2014-09 is a comprehensive new revenue recognition model requiring a company to recognize revenue to depict the transfer of goods or services to a customer at an amount reflecting the consideration it expects to receive in exchange for those goods or services. ASU 2014-09 does not apply to our lease revenues, but will apply to sales of real estate, reimbursed tenant costs, and revenues generated from our operating properties. Additionally, this guidance modifies disclosures regarding the nature, amount, timing, and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from contracts with customers. ASU 2014-09 is effective beginning in 2017 and early adoption is not permitted. In adopting ASU 2014-09, companies may use either a full retrospective or a modified retrospective approach. We are currently evaluating the impact of ASU 2014-09 on our consolidated financial statements and have not yet determined the method by which we will adopt the standard in 2017. ASU 2014-08, Presentation of Financial Statements (Topic 205) and Property, Plant, and Equipment (Topic 360). ASU 2014-08 changes the requirements for reporting discontinued operations. A discontinued operation may include a component of an entity or a group of components of an entity, or a business. Under this new guidance, a disposal of a component of an entity or a group of components of an entity is required to be reported in discontinued operations if the disposal represents a “strategic shift that has or will have a major effect on an entity’s operations and financial results.” The new guidance also requires disclosures including pre-tax profit or loss and significant gains or losses arising from dispositions that represent an “individually significant component of an entity,” but do not meet the criteria to be reported as discontinued operations under ASU 2014-08. In the ordinary course of business, we sell properties, which, under prior accounting guidance, we generally reported as discontinued operations; however, under ASU 2014-08 such property dispositions typically would not meet the criteria to be reported as discontinued operations. We elected to early adopt ASU 2014-08 prospectively for all dispositions after December 31, 2013. Consequently, individually-significant properties that were sold during 2014 were not reclassified to discontinued operations in the consolidated statements of income, but are disclosed in Note 15 to the consolidated financial statements. By contrast, and as required by the new guidance, the consolidated statements of income for the prior year periods reflect all dispositions through December 31, 2013 as discontinued operations, which were deemed discontinued operations under the prior accounting guidance. ASU 2013-11, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Presentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit when a Net Operating Loss Carryforward, a Similar Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit Carryforward Exists. ASU 2013-11 requires an entity to present an unrecognized tax benefit relating to a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward as a reduction to a deferred tax asset, except in certain situations. To the extent that the net operating loss carryforward, similar tax loss, or tax credit carryforward is not available as of the reporting date under the governing tax law to settle any additional income taxes that would result from the disallowance of the tax position, or the governing tax law does not require the entity to use and the entity does not intend to use the deferred tax asset for such purpose, the unrecognized tax benefit should be presented as a liability and should not net with a deferred tax asset. ASU 2013-11 became effective for us at the beginning of 2014. The adoption of ASU 2013-11 did not have a material impact on our financial condition or results of operations.
Equity Method Investments	We own equity interests in net-leased properties that are generally leased to companies through noncontrolling interests (i) in partnerships and limited liability companies that we do not control but over which we exercise significant influence or (ii) as tenants-in-common subject to common control. Generally, the underlying investments are jointly-owned with affiliates. We account for these investments under the equity method of accounting. Earnings for each investment are recognized in accordance with each respective investment agreement and where applicable, based upon an allocation of the investment’s net assets at book value as if the investment were hypothetically liquidated at the end of each reporting period. Investments in unconsolidated investments are required to be evaluated periodically. We periodically compare an investment’s carrying value to its estimated fair value and recognize an impairment charge to the extent that the carrying value exceeds fair value and such decline is determined to be other than temporary. Additionally, we provide funding to developers for ADC Arrangements. Under ADC Arrangements, we have provided two loans to third-party developers of real estate projects, which we account for as equity investments as the characteristics of the arrangement with the third-party developers are more similar to a jointly-owned investment or partnership than a loan (Note 3).
Intangible Assets and Liabilities	In connection with our acquisitions of properties, we have recorded net lease intangibles that are being amortized over periods ranging from one year to 53 years. In addition, we have several ground lease intangibles that are being amortized over periods of up to 94 years. In-place lease and tenant relationship intangibles are included in In-place lease and tenant relationship intangible assets, net in the consolidated financial statements. Above-market rent intangibles, below-market ground lease (as lessee) intangibles, and goodwill are included in Other intangible assets, net in the consolidated financial statements. Below-market rent and above-market ground lease (as lessor) intangibles are included in Below-market rent and other intangible liabilities, net in the consolidated financial statements.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments	The fair value of an asset is defined as the exit price, which is the amount that would either be received when an asset is sold or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The guidance establishes a three-tier fair value hierarchy based on the inputs used in measuring fair value. These tiers are: Level 1, for which quoted market prices for identical instruments are available in active markets, such as money market funds, equity securities, and U.S. Treasury securities; Level 2, for which there are inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the instrument, such as certain derivative instruments including interest rate swaps and foreign currency contracts; and Level 3, for securities and other derivative assets that do not fall into Level 1 or Level 2 and for which little or no market data exists, therefore requiring us to develop our own assumptions.
Discontinued Operations	From time to time, we may decide to sell a property. We have an active capital recycling program, with a goal of extending the average lease term through reinvestment, improving portfolio credit quality through dispositions and acquisitions of assets, increasing the asset criticality factor in our portfolio, and/or executing strategic dispositions of assets. We may make a decision to dispose of a property when it is vacant as a result of tenants vacating space, tenants electing not to renew their leases, tenant insolvency, or lease rejection in the bankruptcy process. In such cases, we assess whether we can obtain the highest value from the property by selling it, as opposed to re-leasing it. We may also sell a property when we receive an unsolicited offer or negotiate a price for an investment that is consistent with our strategy for that investment. When it is appropriate to do so, we classify the property as an asset held for sale on our consolidated balance sheet. For those properties sold or classified as held-for-sale prior to January 1, 2014, we classify current and prior period results of operations of the property as discontinued operations under current accounting guidance (Note 3).