DERIVATIVES - Schedule of Derivatives - Gain (Losses) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Derivative [Line Items]
Gain (loss) on derivative instruments	$ (13,037)		$ 1,820		$ 0
Gain (loss) on sale of derivatives	(36,210)		0
Total gains (losses)	(49,247)		1,820
Non-Performing Loans [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Gain (loss) on derivative instruments	(1,149)	[1]	1,831	[1]
Gain (loss) on sale of derivatives	5,609
Real Estate Securities [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Gain (loss) on derivative instruments	2,336	[1]	(11)	[1]
Gain (loss) on sale of derivatives	43	[1]	0	[1]
TBAs [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Gain (loss) on derivative instruments	(4,985)		0
Gain (loss) on sale of derivatives	(33,638)		0
Interest Rate Cap [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Gain (loss) on derivative instruments	(4)		0
Interest Rate Swap [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Gain (loss) on derivative instruments	(9,235)		0
Gain (loss) on sale of derivatives	(8,400)		0
U.S.T. Short Position [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Gain (loss) on sale of derivatives	$ 176		$ 0

[1] Investments purchased from, and financed by, the selling counterparty that New Residential accounts for as linked transactions and are reflected as derivatives.