Derivative Instruments - Effect on Consolidated Results - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2016
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Realized gains (losses) on terminations of interest rate swaps	$ 0	$ (458)

The net gain (loss) recognized in the statement of operations upon termination of interest rate swap agreements.

No definition available.

Name:	cim_GainLossOnTerminationOfInterestRateSwaps
Namespace Prefix:	cim_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	duration