Note 12 - Supplemental Schedule of Non-cash Investing / Financing Activities - Non-Cash Investing and Financing Activities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015	Dec. 31, 2015
Acquisition of real estate interests by assumption of mortgage debt		$ 20,800
Acquisition of real estate interests through proceeds held in escrow		31,738
Proceeds held in escrow through sale of real estate interests	62,038	14,335
Issuance of common stock	85	488
Surrender of restricted common stock	(6,442)	(5,292)
Declaration of dividends paid in succeeding period	116,857	111,455	$ 115,182
(Decrease)/increase in capital expenditures accrual	(1,979)	(3,700)
(Decrease)/increase in capital expenditures accrual	1,979	3,700
Increase in real estate and other assets	211,457	916,167
Increase in mortgages payable, other liabilities and non-controlling interests	$ 100,475	$ 653,720