CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2012
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
Net income (loss)	$ 12,957	$ 3,008	$ 20,879	$ 5,017
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Unrealized gain (loss) on real estate securities, available for sale	1,042	(222)	1,987	224
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	1,042	(222)	1,987	224
Comprehensive income (loss)	13,999	2,786	22,866	5,241
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to NorthStar Real Estate Income Trust, Inc.	$ 13,999	$ 2,786	$ 22,866	$ 5,241