Essex Portfolio 10-K 22 Feb 18 2017 FY Annual report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Feb. 15, 2018	Jun. 30, 2017
Entity Information [Line Items]
Entity Registrant Name	ESSEX PROPERTY TRUST INC
Entity Central Index Key	920,522
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Document Type	10-K
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2017
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,017
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Amendment Flag	false
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		66,040,303
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Public Float			$ 16,856,375,295
Essex Portfolio, L.P. [Member]
Entity Information [Line Items]
Entity Registrant Name	ESSEX PORTFOLIO LP
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Non-accelerated Filer
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	No
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes

Consolidated Balance Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Rental properties:
Land and land improvements	$ 2,719,064	$ 2,559,743
Buildings and improvements	10,629,767	10,116,563
Total Rental Properties	13,348,831	12,676,306
Less: accumulated depreciation	(2,769,297)	(2,311,546)
Net Real Estate	10,579,534	10,364,760
Real estate under development	355,735	190,505
Co-investments	1,155,984	1,161,275
Real estate held for sale, net	0	101,957
Total Real Estate	12,091,253	11,818,497
Cash and cash equivalents-unrestricted	44,620	64,921
Cash and cash equivalents-restricted	16,506	105,381
Marketable securities	190,004	139,189
Notes and other receivables (includes related party receivables of $41.2 million and $11.3 million as of December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively)	100,926	40,970
Prepaid expenses and other assets	52,397	48,450
Total assets	12,495,706	12,217,408
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
Unsecured debt, net	3,501,709	3,246,779
Mortgage notes payable, net	2,008,417	2,191,481
Lines of credit	179,000	125,000
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	127,501	138,226
Construction payable	51,770	35,909
Dividends payable	121,420	110,170
Distributions in excess of investments in co-investments	36,726	0
Other liabilities	33,132	32,922
Total liabilities	6,059,675	5,880,487
Commitments and contingencies
Redeemable noncontrolling interest	39,206	44,684
Equity:
Common stock; $0.0001 par value, 670,000,000 shares authorized; 66,054,399 and 65,527,993 shares issued and outstanding, respectively	7	6
Additional paid-in capital	7,129,571	7,029,679
Distributions in excess of accumulated earnings	(833,726)	(805,409)
Limited Partners:
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net	(18,446)	(32,098)
Total stockholders' equity	6,277,406	6,192,178
Noncontrolling interest	119,419	100,059
Total equity	6,396,825	6,292,237
Total liabilities and equity/capital	12,495,706	12,217,408
Essex Portfolio, L.P. [Member]
Rental properties:
Land and land improvements	2,719,064	2,559,743
Buildings and improvements	10,629,767	10,116,563
Total Rental Properties	13,348,831	12,676,306
Less: accumulated depreciation	(2,769,297)	(2,311,546)
Net Real Estate	10,579,534	10,364,760
Real estate under development	355,735	190,505
Co-investments	1,155,984	1,161,275
Real estate held for sale, net	0	101,957
Total Real Estate	12,091,253	11,818,497
Cash and cash equivalents-unrestricted	44,620	64,921
Cash and cash equivalents-restricted	16,506	105,381
Marketable securities	190,004	139,189
Notes and other receivables (includes related party receivables of $41.2 million and $11.3 million as of December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively)	100,926	40,970
Prepaid expenses and other assets	52,397	48,450
Total assets	12,495,706	12,217,408
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
Unsecured debt, net	3,501,709	3,246,779
Mortgage notes payable, net	2,008,417	2,191,481
Lines of credit	179,000	125,000
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	127,501	138,226
Construction payable	51,770	35,909
Distributions payable	121,420	110,170
Distributions in excess of investments in co-investments	36,726	0
Other liabilities	33,132	32,922
Total liabilities	6,059,675	5,880,487
Commitments and contingencies
Redeemable noncontrolling interest	39,206	44,684
Limited Partners:
Common equity (2,268,114 and 2,237,290 units issued and outstanding, respectively)	49,792	49,436
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net	(15,229)	(29,348)
Total partners' capital	6,330,415	6,244,364
Noncontrolling interest	66,410	47,873
Total capital	6,396,825	6,292,237
Total liabilities and equity/capital	12,495,706	12,217,408
Essex Portfolio, L.P. [Member] | General Partner [Member]
General Partner:
Common equity (66,054,399 and 65,527,993 units issued and outstanding, respectively)	6,295,852	6,224,276
Essex Portfolio, L.P. [Member] | General Partner [Member] | Common Equity [Member]
General Partner:
Common equity (66,054,399 and 65,527,993 units issued and outstanding, respectively)	6,295,852	6,224,276
Limited Partners:
Total capital	$ 6,295,852	$ 6,224,276

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Due from related parties	$ 41.2	$ 11.3
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.0001	$ 0.0001
Common stock, shares authorized	670,000,000	670,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	66,054,399	65,527,993
Common stock, shares outstanding	66,054,399	65,527,993
Essex Portfolio, L.P. [Member]
Due from related parties	$ 41.2	$ 11.3
Essex Portfolio, L.P. [Member] | General Partner [Member]
Common stock, shares issued	66,054,399	65,527,993
Common stock, shares outstanding	66,054,399	65,527,993
Essex Portfolio, L.P. [Member] | Limited Partner [Member]
Common stock, shares issued	2,268,114	2,237,290
Common stock, shares outstanding	2,268,114	2,237,290

Consolidated Statements of Inco

Consolidated Statements of Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Revenues:
Rental and other property	$ 1,354,325	$ 1,285,723	$ 1,185,498
Management and other fees from affiliates	9,574	8,278	8,909
Total revenues	1,363,899	1,294,001	1,194,407
Expenses:
Property operating, excluding real estate taxes	259,232	249,765	234,953
Real estate taxes	146,310	139,162	128,555
Depreciation and amortization	468,881	441,682	453,423
General and administrative	41,385	40,751	40,090
Merger and integration expenses	0	0	3,798
Acquisition and investment related costs	1,569	1,841	2,414
Total expenses	917,377	873,201	863,233
Earnings from operations	446,522	420,800	331,174
Interest expense	(222,894)	(219,654)	(204,827)
Total return swap income	10,098	11,716	5,655
Interest and other income	24,604	27,305	19,143
Equity income from co-investments	86,445	48,698	21,861
Loss on early retirement of debt	(1,796)	(606)	(6,114)
Gain on sale of real estate and land	26,423	154,561	47,333
Deferred tax expense on gain on sale of real estate and land	0	(4,410)	0
Gain on remeasurement of co-investment	88,641	0	34,014
Net income	458,043	438,410	248,239
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest	(24,984)	(23,431)	(16,119)
Net income attributable to controlling interest	433,059	414,979	232,120
Dividends to preferred stockholders	0	(1,314)	(5,255)
Excess of redemption value of preferred stock over the carrying value	0	(2,541)	0
Net income available to common stockholders	$ 433,059	$ 411,124	$ 226,865
Basic:
Net income available to common stockholders - basic (in dollars per share)	$ 6.58	$ 6.28	$ 3.50
Weighted average number of shares outstanding during the year	65,829,155	65,471,540	64,871,717
Diluted:
Net income available to common stockholders - diluted (in dollars per share)	$ 6.57	$ 6.27	$ 3.49
Weighted average number of shares outstanding during the year	65,898,255	65,587,816	65,061,685
Essex Portfolio, L.P. [Member]
Revenues:
Rental and other property	$ 1,354,325	$ 1,285,723	$ 1,185,498
Management and other fees from affiliates	9,574	8,278	8,909
Total revenues	1,363,899	1,294,001	1,194,407
Expenses:
Property operating, excluding real estate taxes	259,232	249,765	234,953
Real estate taxes	146,310	139,162	128,555
Depreciation and amortization	468,881	441,682	453,423
General and administrative	41,385	40,751	40,090
Merger and integration expenses	0	0	3,798
Acquisition and investment related costs	1,569	1,841	2,414
Total expenses	917,377	873,201	863,233
Earnings from operations	446,522	420,800	331,174
Interest expense	(222,894)	(219,654)	(204,827)
Total return swap income	10,098	11,716	5,655
Interest and other income	24,604	27,305	19,143
Equity income from co-investments	86,445	48,698	21,861
Loss on early retirement of debt	(1,796)	(606)	(6,114)
Gain on sale of real estate and land	26,423	154,561	47,333
Deferred tax expense on gain on sale of real estate and land	0	(4,410)	0
Gain on remeasurement of co-investment	88,641	0	34,014
Net income	458,043	438,410	248,239
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest	(10,159)	(9,342)	(8,295)
Net income attributable to controlling interest	447,884	429,068	239,944
Dividends to preferred stockholders	0	(1,314)	(5,255)
Excess of redemption value of preferred stock over the carrying value	0	(2,541)	0
Net income available to common stockholders	$ 447,884	$ 425,213	$ 234,689
Basic:
Net income available to common stockholders - basic (in dollars per share)	$ 6.58	$ 6.28	$ 3.50
Weighted average number of shares outstanding during the year	68,081,730	67,695,640	67,054,184
Diluted:
Net income available to common stockholders - diluted (in dollars per share)	$ 6.57	$ 6.27	$ 3.49
Weighted average number of shares outstanding during the year	68,150,830	67,811,916	67,244,152

Consolidated Statements of Comp

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Net income	$ 458,043	$ 438,410	$ 248,239
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Change in fair value of derivatives and amortization of swap settlements	12,744	15,926	7,893
Changes in fair value of marketable securities, net	3,284	(828)	1,865
Reversal of unrealized gains upon the sale of marketable securities	(1,909)	(4,848)	0
Total other comprehensive income	14,119	10,250	9,758
Comprehensive income	472,162	448,660	257,997
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest	(25,451)	(23,768)	(16,436)
Comprehensive income attributable to controlling interest	446,711	424,892	241,561
Essex Portfolio, L.P. [Member]
Net income	458,043	438,410	248,239
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Change in fair value of derivatives and amortization of swap settlements	12,744	15,926	7,893
Changes in fair value of marketable securities, net	3,284	(828)	1,865
Reversal of unrealized gains upon the sale of marketable securities	(1,909)	(4,848)	0
Total other comprehensive income	14,119	10,250	9,758
Comprehensive income	472,162	448,660	257,997
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest	(10,159)	(9,342)	(8,295)
Comprehensive income attributable to controlling interest	$ 462,003	$ 439,318	$ 249,702

Consolidated Statements of Equi

Consolidated Statements of Equity - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Total	Series H Preferred Stock [Member]	Common Stock [Member]	Additional paid-in capital [Member]	Distributions in excess of accumulated earnings [Member]	Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net [Member]	Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Balances at Dec. 31, 2014	$ 6,136,068	$ 73,750	$ 6	$ 6,651,165	$ (650,797)	$ (51,452)	$ 113,396
Balances (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2014		2,950,000	63,683,000
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income	248,239				232,120		16,119
Reversal of unrealized gains upon the sale of marketable securities	0
Change in fair value of derivatives and amortization of swap settlements	7,893					7,637	256
Changes in fair value of marketable securities, net	1,865					1,804	61
Issuance of common stock under:
Stock option and restricted stock plans, net	26,540			26,540
Stock option and restricted stock plans, net (in shares)			207,000
Sale of common stock, net	332,137			332,137
Sale of common stock, net (in shares)			1,482,000
Equity based compensation costs	9,646			5,946			3,700
Reclassification of noncontrolling interest to redeemable noncontrolling interest	(19,772)			(7,657)			(12,115)
Changes in the redemption value of redeemable noncontrolling interest	(2,615)			(2,615)
Distributions to noncontrolling interest	(21,705)						(21,705)
Redemptions of noncontrolling interest	(2,621)			(2,199)			(422)
Redemptions of noncontrolling interest (in shares)			7,000
Common and preferred stock dividends	(378,652)				(378,652)
Balances at Dec. 31, 2015	6,337,023	$ 73,750	$ 6	7,003,317	(797,329)	(42,011)	99,290
Balances (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2015		2,950,000	65,379,000
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income	438,410				414,979		23,431
Reversal of unrealized gains upon the sale of marketable securities	(4,848)					(4,689)	(159)
Change in fair value of derivatives and amortization of swap settlements	15,926					15,403	523
Changes in fair value of marketable securities, net	(828)					(801)	(27)
Issuance of common stock under:
Stock option and restricted stock plans, net	18,949			18,949
Stock option and restricted stock plans, net (in shares)			140,000
Sale of common stock, net	$ (384)			(384)
Sale of common stock, net (in shares)	0
Equity based compensation costs	$ 10,899			8,246			2,653
Redemption of Series H preferred stock	(73,750)	$ (73,750)		2,541	(2,541)
Redemption of Series H preferred stock (in shares)		(2,950,000)
Retirement of common stock, net	(1,045)			(1,045)
Retirement of common stock, net (in shares)			(5,000)
Changes in the redemption value of redeemable noncontrolling interest	768			172			596
Distributions to noncontrolling interest	(25,854)						(25,854)
Redemptions of noncontrolling interest	(2,511)			(2,117)			(394)
Redemptions of noncontrolling interest (in shares)			14,000
Common and preferred stock dividends	(420,518)				(420,518)
Balances at Dec. 31, 2016	6,292,237	$ 0	$ 6	7,029,679	(805,409)	(32,098)	100,059
Balances (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2016		0	65,528,000
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income	458,043				433,059		24,984
Reversal of unrealized gains upon the sale of marketable securities	(1,909)					(1,846)	(63)
Change in fair value of derivatives and amortization of swap settlements	12,744					12,322	422
Changes in fair value of marketable securities, net	3,284					3,176	108
Issuance of common stock under:
Stock option and restricted stock plans, net	26,635			26,635
Stock option and restricted stock plans, net (in shares)			179,000
Sale of common stock, net	$ 89,055		$ 1	89,054
Sale of common stock, net (in shares)	345,444		345,000
Equity based compensation costs	$ 11,302			9,529			1,773
Changes in the redemption value of redeemable noncontrolling interest	(65)			(136)			71
Contributions from noncontrolling interest	22,506						22,506
Distributions to noncontrolling interest	(27,051)						(27,051)
Redemptions of noncontrolling interest	(28,580)			(25,190)			(3,390)
Redemptions of noncontrolling interest (in shares)			2,000
Common and preferred stock dividends	(461,376)				(461,376)
Balances at Dec. 31, 2017	$ 6,396,825	$ 0	$ 7	$ 7,129,571	$ (833,726)	$ (18,446)	$ 119,419
Balances (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2017		0	66,054,000

Consolidated Statements of Capi

Consolidated Statements of Capital - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended				12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Increase (Decrease) in Partners' Capital [Roll Forward]
Net income	$ 109,662	$ 187,551	$ 204,517	$ 86,907	$ 458,043	$ 438,410	$ 248,239
Reversal of unrealized gains upon the sale of marketable securities					(1,909)	(4,848)	0
Change in fair value of derivatives and amortization of swap settlements					12,744	15,926	7,893
Changes in fair value of marketable securities, net					3,284	(828)	1,865
Issuance of common stock under:
Sale of common stock by the general partner, net					$ 89,055	$ (384)	332,137
Sale of common stock by the general partner, net (in shares)					345,444	0
Retirement of common stock, net						$ (1,045)
Changes in the redemption value of redeemable noncontrolling interest					$ (65)	768	(2,615)
Reclassification of noncontrolling interest to redeemable noncontrolling interest							(19,772)
Contributions from noncontrolling interest					22,506
Distributions to noncontrolling interests					(27,051)	(25,854)	(21,705)
Redemptions					(28,580)	(2,511)	(2,621)
Essex Portfolio, L.P. [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Partners' Capital [Roll Forward]
Balances		6,292,237		6,337,023	6,292,237	6,337,023	6,136,068
Net income	109,662	187,551	204,517	86,907	458,043	438,410	248,239
Reversal of unrealized gains upon the sale of marketable securities					(1,909)	(4,848)	0
Change in fair value of derivatives and amortization of swap settlements					12,744	15,926	7,893
Changes in fair value of marketable securities, net					3,284	(828)	1,865
Issuance of common stock under:
General partner's stock based compensation, net					26,635	18,949	26,540
Sale of common stock by the general partner, net					89,055	(384)	332,137
Equity based compensation costs					11,302	10,899	9,646
Redemption of Series H preferred units						(73,750)
Retirement of common stock, net						(1,045)
Changes in the redemption value of redeemable noncontrolling interest					(65)	768	(2,615)
Reclassification of noncontrolling interest to redeemable noncontrolling interest							(19,772)
Contributions from noncontrolling interest					22,506
Distributions to noncontrolling interests					(11,078)	(11,296)	(8,751)
Redemptions					(28,580)	(2,511)	(2,621)
Distributions declared					(477,349)	(435,076)	(391,606)
Balances	6,396,825		6,292,237		6,396,825	6,292,237	6,337,023
Essex Portfolio, L.P. [Member] | Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Partners' Capital [Roll Forward]
Balances		(29,348)		(39,598)	(29,348)	(39,598)	(49,356)
Reversal of unrealized gains upon the sale of marketable securities					(1,909)	(4,848)
Change in fair value of derivatives and amortization of swap settlements					12,744	15,926	7,893
Changes in fair value of marketable securities, net					3,284	(828)	1,865
Issuance of common stock under:
Balances	(15,229)		(29,348)		(15,229)	(29,348)	(39,598)
Essex Portfolio, L.P. [Member] | Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Partners' Capital [Roll Forward]
Balances		47,873		49,642	47,873	49,642	62,635
Net income					10,159	9,342	8,295
Issuance of common stock under:
Changes in the redemption value of redeemable noncontrolling interest					(65)	596
Reclassification of noncontrolling interest to redeemable noncontrolling interest							(12,115)
Contributions from noncontrolling interest					22,506
Distributions to noncontrolling interests					(11,078)	(11,296)	(8,751)
Redemptions					(2,985)	(411)	(422)
Balances	66,410		47,873		66,410	47,873	49,642
Essex Portfolio, L.P. [Member] | General Partner [Member] | Common Equity [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Partners' Capital [Roll Forward]
Balances		$ 6,224,276		$ 6,208,535	$ 6,224,276	$ 6,208,535	$ 6,002,915
Balances (in shares)		65,528,000		65,379,000	65,528,000	65,379,000	63,683,000
Net income					$ 433,059	$ 411,124	$ 226,865
Issuance of common stock under:
General partner's stock based compensation, net					$ 26,635	$ 18,949	$ 26,540
General partner's stock based compensation, net (in shares)					179,000	140,000	207,000
Sale of common stock by the general partner, net					$ 89,055	$ (384)	$ 332,137
Sale of common stock by the general partner, net (in shares)					345,000		1,482,000
Equity based compensation costs					$ 9,529	8,246	$ 5,946
Retirement of common stock, net						$ (1,045)
Retirement of common stock, net (in shares)						(5,000)
Changes in the redemption value of redeemable noncontrolling interest					(136)	$ 172	(2,615)
Reclassification of noncontrolling interest to redeemable noncontrolling interest							(7,657)
Redemptions					$ (25,190)	$ (2,117)	$ (2,199)
Redemptions (in shares)					(2,000)	(14,000)	(7,000)
Distributions declared					$ (461,376)	$ (419,204)	$ (373,397)
Balances	$ 6,295,852		$ 6,224,276		$ 6,295,852	$ 6,224,276	$ 6,208,535
Balances (in shares)	66,054,000		65,528,000		66,054,000	65,528,000	65,379,000
Essex Portfolio, L.P. [Member] | General Partner [Member] | Preferred Equity [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Partners' Capital [Roll Forward]
Balances		$ 0		$ 71,209	$ 0	$ 71,209	$ 71,209
Net income						3,855	5,255
Issuance of common stock under:
Redemption of Series H preferred units						(73,750)
Distributions declared						(1,314)	(5,255)
Balances	$ 0		$ 0		0	0	71,209
Essex Portfolio, L.P. [Member] | Limited Partner [Member] | Common Equity [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Partners' Capital [Roll Forward]
Balances		$ 49,436		$ 47,235	$ 49,436	$ 47,235	$ 48,665
Balances (in shares)		2,237,000		2,215,000	2,237,000	2,215,000	2,168,000
Net income					$ 14,825	$ 14,089	$ 7,824
Issuance of common stock under:
Equity based compensation costs					$ 1,773	$ 2,653	$ 3,700
Equity-based compensation costs (in shares)					33,000	37,000	54,000
Changes in the redemption value of redeemable noncontrolling interest					$ 136
Reclassification of noncontrolling interest to redeemable noncontrolling interest							$ 0
Redemptions					$ (405)	$ 17	$ 0
Redemptions (in shares)					(2,000)	(15,000)	(7,000)
Distributions declared					$ (15,973)	$ (14,558)	$ (12,954)
Balances	$ 49,792		$ 49,436		$ 49,792	$ 49,436	$ 47,235
Balances (in shares)	2,268,000		2,237,000		2,268,000	2,237,000	2,215,000

Consolidated Statements of Cash

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$ 458,043	$ 438,410	$ 248,239
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	468,881	441,682	453,423
Amortization of discount on marketable securities and other investments	(15,119)	(14,211)	(12,389)
Amortization of (premium) discount and financing costs, net	(5,948)	(15,234)	(19,361)
Gain on sale of marketable securities and other investments	(1,909)	(5,719)	(598)
Company's share of gain on the sales of co-investments	(44,837)	(13,046)	0
Earnings from co-investments	(41,608)	(35,652)	(21,861)
Operating distributions from co-investments	76,764	60,472	46,608
Gain on the sale of real estate and land	(26,423)	(154,561)	(47,333)
Equity-based compensation	9,286	9,811	6,061
Loss on early retirement of debt, net	1,796	606	6,114
Gain on remeasurement of co-investment	(88,641)	0	(34,014)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Prepaid expenses, receivables and other assets	(8,860)	(2,328)	267
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	(15,104)	2,087	(8,875)
Other liabilities	(170)	(496)	1,887
Net cash provided by operating activities	766,151	711,821	618,168
Additions to real estate:
Acquisitions of real estate and acquisition related capital expenditures	(206,194)	(315,632)	(515,726)
Redevelopment	(69,928)	(83,927)	(99,346)
Development acquisitions of and additions to real estate under development	(137,733)	(75,367)	(157,900)
Capital expenditures on rental properties	(70,986)	(60,013)	(57,277)
Acquisition of membership interest in co-investments	0	0	(115,724)
Collections of notes and other receivables	55,000	4,070	0
Investments in notes receivable	(106,461)	(24,070)	0
Proceeds from insurance for property losses	648	5,543	16,811
Proceeds from dispositions of real estate	132,039	239,289	319,008
Contributions to co-investments	(293,363)	(183,989)	(127,879)
Changes in restricted cash and refundable deposits	89,712	(14,138)	(14,068)
Purchases of marketable securities	(67,893)	(18,779)	(14,300)
Sales and maturities of marketable securities and other investments	35,481	30,458	8,907
Non-operating distributions from co-investments	162,439	76,231	31,938
Net cash used in investing activities	(477,239)	(420,324)	(725,556)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from unsecured debt and mortgage notes	597,981	669,282	641,816
Payments on unsecured debt and mortgage notes	(561,160)	(532,020)	(261,734)
Proceeds from lines of credit	982,246	596,106	704,039
Repayments of lines of credit	(928,246)	(486,106)	(935,617)
Repayment of cumulative redeemable preferred stock	0	(73,750)	0
Retirement of common stock	0	(1,045)	0
Additions to deferred charges	(4,108)	(7,926)	(8,034)
Net proceeds from issuance of common stock	89,055	(384)	332,137
Net proceeds from stock options exercised	26,635	18,949	26,540
Payments related to tax withholding for share-based compensation	(316)	(386)	(758)
Distributions to noncontrolling interest	(26,552)	(25,334)	(21,055)
Redemption of noncontrolling interest	(28,580)	(2,511)	(2,621)
Redemption of redeemable noncontrolling interest	(5,543)	0	0
Common and preferred stock/units dividends paid and preferred interest distributions paid	(450,625)	(411,134)	(367,257)
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities	(309,213)	(256,259)	107,456
Cash acquired from consolidation of co-investment	0	0	4,005
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents	(20,301)	35,238	4,073
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year	64,921	29,683	25,610
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	44,620	64,921	29,683
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
Cash paid for interest, net of capitalized interest	212,163	203,743	181,106
Interest capitalized	13,860	12,486	15,571
Supplemental disclosure of noncash investing and financing activities:
Issuance of DownREIT limited partnership units in connection with acquisition of real estate	22,506	0	0
Transfers between real estate under development to rental properties, net	2,413	104,159	308,704
Transfer from real estate under development to co-investments	5,075	9,919	6,234
Reclassifications to (from) redeemable noncontrolling interest to or from additional paid in capital and noncontrolling interest	65	(768)	22,387
Debt assumed in connection with acquisition	51,882	48,832	114,435
Debt deconsolidated in connection with BEX II transaction	0	20,195	0
Essex Portfolio, L.P. [Member]
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	458,043	438,410	248,239
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	468,881	441,682	453,423
Amortization of discount on marketable securities and other investments	(15,119)	(14,211)	(12,389)
Amortization of (premium) discount and financing costs, net	(5,948)	(15,234)	(19,361)
Gain on sale of marketable securities and other investments	(1,909)	(5,719)	(598)
Company's share of gain on the sales of co-investments	(44,837)	(13,046)	0
Earnings from co-investments	(41,608)	(35,652)	(21,861)
Operating distributions from co-investments	76,764	60,472	46,608
Gain on the sale of real estate and land	(26,423)	(154,561)	(47,333)
Equity-based compensation	9,286	9,811	6,061
Loss on early retirement of debt, net	1,796	606	6,114
Gain on remeasurement of co-investment	(88,641)	0	(34,014)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Prepaid expenses, receivables and other assets	(8,860)	(2,328)	267
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	(15,104)	2,087	(8,875)
Other liabilities	(170)	(496)	1,887
Net cash provided by operating activities	766,151	711,821	618,168
Additions to real estate:
Acquisitions of real estate and acquisition related capital expenditures	(206,194)	(315,632)	(515,726)
Redevelopment	(69,928)	(83,927)	(99,346)
Development acquisitions of and additions to real estate under development	(137,733)	(75,367)	(157,900)
Capital expenditures on rental properties	(70,986)	(60,013)	(57,277)
Acquisition of membership interest in co-investments	0	0	(115,724)
Collections of notes and other receivables	55,000	4,070	0
Investments in notes receivable	(106,461)	(24,070)	0
Proceeds from insurance for property losses	648	5,543	16,811
Proceeds from dispositions of real estate	132,039	239,289	319,008
Contributions to co-investments	(293,363)	(183,989)	(127,879)
Changes in restricted cash and refundable deposits	89,712	(14,138)	(14,068)
Purchases of marketable securities	(67,893)	(18,779)	(14,300)
Sales and maturities of marketable securities and other investments	35,481	30,458	8,907
Non-operating distributions from co-investments	162,439	76,231	31,938
Net cash used in investing activities	(477,239)	(420,324)	(725,556)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from unsecured debt and mortgage notes	597,981	669,282	641,816
Payments on unsecured debt and mortgage notes	(561,160)	(532,020)	(261,734)
Proceeds from lines of credit	982,246	596,106	704,039
Repayments of lines of credit	(928,246)	(486,106)	(935,617)
Repayment of cumulative redeemable preferred stock	0	(73,750)	0
Retirement of common stock	0	(1,045)	0
Additions to deferred charges	(4,108)	(7,926)	(8,034)
Net proceeds from issuance of common stock	89,055	(384)	332,137
Net proceeds from stock options exercised	26,635	18,949	26,540
Payments related to tax withholding for share-based compensation	(316)	(386)	(758)
Distributions to noncontrolling interest	(7,752)	(6,960)	(7,615)
Redemption of noncontrolling interest	(28,580)	(2,511)	(2,621)
Redemption of redeemable noncontrolling interest	(5,543)	0	0
Common and preferred stock/units dividends paid and preferred interest distributions paid	(469,425)	(429,508)	(380,697)
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities	(309,213)	(256,259)	107,456
Cash acquired from consolidation of co-investment	0	0	4,005
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents	(20,301)	35,238	4,073
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year	64,921	29,683	25,610
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	44,620	64,921	29,683
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
Cash paid for interest, net of capitalized interest	212,163	203,743	181,106
Interest capitalized	13,860	12,486	15,571
Supplemental disclosure of noncash investing and financing activities:
Issuance of DownREIT limited partnership units in connection with acquisition of real estate	22,506	0	0
Transfers between real estate under development to rental properties, net	2,413	104,159	308,704
Transfer from real estate under development to co-investments	5,075	9,919	6,234
Reclassifications to (from) redeemable noncontrolling interest to or from additional paid in capital and noncontrolling interest	65	(768)	22,387
Debt assumed in connection with acquisition	51,882	48,832	114,435
Debt deconsolidated in connection with BEX II transaction	$ 0	$ 20,195	$ 0

Organization

Organization	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Organization	Organization The accompanying consolidated financial statements present the accounts of Essex Property Trust, Inc. (“Essex” or the “Company”), which include the accounts of the Company and Essex Portfolio, L.P. and subsidiaries (the “Operating Partnership,” which holds the operating assets of the Company). Unless otherwise indicated, the notes to consolidated financial statements apply to both the Company and the Operating Partnership. Essex is the sole general partner in the Operating Partnership with a 96.7% general partner interest and the limited partners owned a 3.3% interest as of December 31, 2017 . The limited partners may convert their Operating Partnership units into an equivalent number of shares of Essex common stock. Total Operating Partnership limited partnership units outstanding were 2,268,114 and 2,237,290 as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively, and the redemption value of the units, based on the closing price of the Company’s common stock totaled approximately $547.5 million and $520.2 million , as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively. The Company has reserved shares of common stock for such conversions. As of December 31, 2017 , the Company owned or had ownership interests in 247 operating apartment communities, aggregating 60,239 apartment homes, excluding the Company's ownership in preferred interest co-investments (collectively, the "Communities", and individually, a "Community"), one operating commercial building, and seven active developments (collectively, the “Portfolio”). The Communities are located in Southern California (Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego, and Ventura counties), Northern California (the San Francisco Bay Area) and the Seattle metropolitan areas.

Summary of Critical and Signifi

Summary of Critical and Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Summary of Critical and Significant Accounting Policies	Summary of Critical and Significant Accounting Policies (a) Principles of Consolidation and Basis of Presentation The accounts of the Company, its controlled subsidiaries and the variable interest entities (“VIEs”) in which it is the primary beneficiary are consolidated in the accompanying financial statements and prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP"). In the opinion of management, all adjustments necessary for a fair presentation of the financial position, results of operations and cash flows for the periods presented have been included and are normal and recurring in nature. All significant inter-company accounts and transactions have been eliminated. Certain reclassifications have been made in prior period amounts to conform to the current year’s presentation. Such reclassifications had no net effect on previously reported financial results. Noncontrolling interest includes the 3.3% limited partner interests in the Operating Partnership not held by the Company at both December 31, 2017 and 2016 . These percentages include the Operating Partnership’s vested long term incentive plan units (see Note 12). (b) Recent Accounting Pronouncements In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2014-09 "Revenue from Contracts with Customers." The new standard provides a single comprehensive revenue recognition model for contracts with customers (excluding certain contracts, such as lease contracts) to improve comparability within industries. The new standard requires an entity to recognize revenue to reflect the transfer of goods or services to customers at an amount the entity expects to be paid in exchange for those goods and services and provide enhanced disclosures, all to provide more comprehensive guidance for transactions such as service revenue and contract modifications. In August 2015, the FASB deferred the effective date of the new standard by one year, and it is now effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017. The new standard may be applied using either a full retrospective or a modified approach upon adoption. The Company adopted the new standard as of January 1, 2018, when effective, using the modified approach and recognizing a cumulative effect, if any, as of the date of adoption. The majority of the Company's revenue is derived from rental income, which will be accounted for under ASU No. 2016-02 "Leases", which is discussed below. The Company has reviewed all other revenue streams that could be impacted by the new standard and performed an evaluation of the affect that the new standard will have on its recognition of revenue and all additional required disclosures. Management determined that the new standard will not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated results of operations or financial position and will not affect the Company's debt covenant compliance. However, the Company will provide enhanced revenue recognition disclosures as required by the new standard. In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-01 "Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities", which requires changes to the classification and measurement of investments in certain equity securities and to the presentation of certain fair value changes for financial liabilities measured at fair value. The new standard will be effective for the Company beginning on January 1, 2018. As a result of the adoption of this standard, the Company will recognize changes in fair value of equity investments with readily determinable fair values through net income as opposed to other comprehensive income. The Company does not expect that this amendment will have a material effect on its consolidated results of operations or financial position. In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02 "Leases", which requires an entity that is a lessee to classify leases as either finance or operating and to recognize a lease liability and a right-of-use asset for all leases that have a duration of greater than 12 months. Leases of 12 months or less will be accounted for similar to existing guidance for operating leases today. For lessors, accounting for leases under the new standard will be substantially the same as existing guidance for sales-type leases, direct financing leases, and operating leases, but eliminates current real estate specific provisions and changes the treatment of initial direct costs. The new standard will be effective for the Company beginning on January 1, 2019 and early adoption is permitted, including adoption in an interim period. The new standard must be applied using a modified retrospective approach. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this amendment on its consolidated results of operations and financial position. In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-13 "Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments", which amends the current approach to estimate credit losses on certain financial assets, including trade and other receivables, available-for-sale securities, and other financial instruments. Generally, this amendment requires entities to establish a valuation allowance for the expected lifetime losses of these certain financial assets. Subsequent changes in the valuation allowance are recorded in current earnings and reversal of previous losses are permitted. Currently, GAAP requires entities to write down credit losses only when losses are probable and loss reversals are not permitted. The new standard will be effective for the Company beginning on January 1, 2020 and early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this amendment on its consolidated results of operations and financial position. In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-15 "Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments", which requires entities to adhere to a uniform classification and presentation of certain cash receipts and cash payments in the statement of cash flows. The amendments in this update provide guidance on eight specific cash flow issues. The new standard will be effective for the Company beginning on January 1, 2018. The Company does not expect the impact of this amendment to be material on its consolidated results of operations or financial position. In November 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-18 "Statement of Cash Flows", which requires entities to include restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents in the reconciliation of beginning-of-period to the end-of-period of cash and cash equivalents in the statement of cash flows. This new standard seeks to eliminate the current diversity in practice in how changes in restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents is presented in the statement of cash flows. This new standard will be effective for the Company beginning January 1, 2018. The Company does not expect the impact of this amendment to be material on its consolidated results of operations or financial position. In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-01 "Business Combinations: Clarifying the Definition of a Business", which provides a new framework for determining whether transactions should be accounted for as acquisitions (or disposals) of assets or businesses. Currently, GAAP does not specify the minimum inputs and processes required for an integrated set of assets and activities to meet the definition of a business, causing a broad interpretation of the definition of a business. This new standard will be effective for the Company beginning January 1, 2018. The Company expects that substantially all of its acquisitions of communities will qualify as asset acquisitions and transaction costs related to these acquisitions will be capitalized upon adoption. In February 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-05 "Other Income - Gains and Losses from the Derecognition of Nonfinancial Assets (Subtopic 610-20): Clarifying the Scope of Asset Derecognition Guidance and Accounting for Partial Sales of Nonfinancial Assets", which adds guidance for partial sales of nonfinancial assets, including partial sales of real estate. Historically, GAAP contained several different accounting models to evaluate whether the transfer of certain assets qualified for sale treatment. This new standard reduces the number of potential accounting models that might apply and clarifies which model does apply in various circumstances. Partial sales of nonfinancial assets are common in the real estate industry and include transactions in which the seller retains an equity interest in the entity that owns the assets or has an equity interest in the buyer. This new standard will be effective for the Company beginning January 1, 2018. The new standard allows for either a retrospective or modified retrospective approach. The Company adopted this new standard concurrently with the adoption of ASU 2014-09 "Revenue from Contracts with Customers" as of January 1, 2018. Management has performed an evaluation of all of the Company's contracts that may be affected by the new standard. Based on its analysis, the Company expects to apply the modified retrospective approach by recording a cumulative adjustment to retained earnings of approximately $123.7 million from the sale of minority membership interest in BEX II, LLC ("BEX II") during the fourth quarter of 2016. In August 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-12 "Derivatives and Hedging - Targeted Improvements to Accounting for Hedging Activities", which, among other things, requires entities to present the earnings effect of hedging instruments in the same income statement line item in which the earnings effect of the hedged item is reported. The new standard also adds new disclosure requirements. This new standard will be effective for the Company beginning January 1, 2019 and early adoption is permitted. The Company does not expect the impact of this amendment to be material on its consolidated results of operations or financial position. (c) Real Estate Rental Properties Significant expenditures, which improve or extend the life of an asset and have a useful life of greater than one year, are capitalized. Operating real estate assets are stated at cost and consist of land, buildings and improvements, furniture, fixtures and equipment, and other costs incurred during their development, redevelopment and acquisition. Expenditures for maintenance and repairs are charged to expense as incurred. The depreciable life of various categories of fixed assets is as follows: Computer software and equipment 3 - 5 years Interior apartment home improvements 5 years Furniture, fixtures and equipment 5 - 10 years Land improvements and certain exterior components of real property 10 years Real estate structures 30 years The Company capitalizes all costs incurred with the predevelopment, development or redevelopment of real estate assets or are associated with the construction or expansion of real property. Such capitalized costs include land, land improvements, allocated costs of the Company’s project management staff, construction costs, as well as interest and related loan fees, property taxes and insurance. Capitalization begins for predevelopment, development, and redevelopment projects when activity commences. Capitalization ends when the apartment home is completed and the property is available for a new tenant or if the development activities cease. The Company allocates the purchase price of real estate to land and building including personal property, and identifiable intangible assets, such as the value of above, below and in-place leases. The values of the above and below market leases are amortized and recorded as either a decrease (in the case of above market leases) or an increase (in the case of below market leases) to rental revenue over the remaining term of the associated leases acquired. The value of acquired in-place leases are amortized to expense over the average remaining term of the leases acquired. The net carrying value of acquired in-place leases is $0.4 million and $1.4 million as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively, and are included in prepaid expenses and other assets on the Company's consolidated balance sheets. The Company performs the following evaluation for communities acquired: (1) adjust the purchase price for any fair value adjustments resulting from such things as assumed debt or contingencies; (2) estimate the value of the real estate “as if vacant” as of the acquisition date; (3) allocate that value among land and buildings including personal property; (4) compute the value of the difference between the “as if vacant” value and the adjusted purchase price, which will represent the total intangible assets; (5) compute the value of the above and below market leases and determine the associated life of the above market/ below market leases; (6) compute the value of the in-place leases and customer relationships, if any, and the associated lives of these assets. Whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of a property held for investment or held for sale may not be fully recoverable, the carrying amount will be evaluated for impairment. If the sum of the expected future cash flows (undiscounted and without interest charges) is less than the carrying amount (including intangible assets) of a property held for investment, then the Company will recognize an impairment loss equal to the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value of the property. Fair value of a property is determined using conventional real estate valuation methods, such as discounted cash flow, the property’s unleveraged yield in comparison to the unleveraged yields and sales prices of similar communities that have been recently sold, and other third party information, if available. Communities held for sale are carried at the lower of cost and fair value less estimated costs to sell. As of December 31, 2017 , no properties were classified as held for sale. As of December 31, 2016 , one property was classified as held for sale. No impairment charges were recorded for the years ended 2017, 2016 or 2015. In the normal course of business, the Company will receive purchase offers for its communities, either solicited or unsolicited. For those offers that are accepted, the prospective buyer will usually require a due diligence period before consummation of the transaction. It is not unusual for matters to arise that result in the withdrawal or rejection of the offer during this process. The Company classifies real estate as "held for sale" when all criteria under the accounting standard for the disposals of long-lived assets have been met. (d) Co-investments The Company owns investments in joint ventures (“co-investments”) in which it has significant influence, but its ownership interest does not meet the criteria for consolidation in accordance with GAAP. Therefore, the Company accounts for co-investments using the equity method of accounting. Under the equity method of accounting, the investment is carried at the cost of assets contributed, plus the Company’s equity in earnings less distributions received and the Company’s share of losses. The significant accounting policies of the Company’s co-investment entities are consistent with those of the Company in all material respects. Upon the acquisition of a controlling interest of a co-investment, the co-investment entity is consolidated and a gain or loss is recognized upon the remeasurement of co-investments in the consolidated statement of income equal to the amount by which the fair value of the co-investment interest the Company previously owned exceeds its carrying value. A majority of the co-investments, excluding the preferred equity investments, compensate the Company for its asset management services and some of these investments may provide promote income if certain financial return benchmarks are achieved. Asset management fees are recognized when earned, and promote fees are recognized when the earnings events have occurred and the amount is determinable and collectible. Any promote fees are reflected in equity income from co-investments. The Company reports investments in co-investments where accumulated distributions have exceeded the Company’s investment as distributions in excess of investments in co-investments in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. As of December 31, 2017, the Company's net investment in one of the Company’s co-investments was negative as a result of financing distributions in excess of the Company's investment in such co-investment. (e) Revenues and Gains on Sale of Real Estate Revenues from tenants renting or leasing apartment homes are recorded when due from tenants and are recognized monthly as they are earned, which is not materially different than on a straight-line basis. Apartment homes are rented under short-term leases (generally, lease terms of 6 to 12 months). Revenues from tenants leasing commercial space are recorded on a straight-line basis over the life of the respective lease. The Company recognizes gains on sales of real estate when a contract is in place, a closing has taken place, the buyer’s initial and continuing investment is adequate to demonstrate a commitment to pay for the property and the Company does not have a substantial continuing involvement with the property. (f) Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash Highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less when purchased are classified as cash equivalents. Restricted cash balances relate primarily to reserve requirements for capital replacement at certain communities in connection with the Company’s mortgage debt. (g) Marketable Securities The Company reports its available for sale securities at fair value, based on quoted market prices (Level 1 for the common stock and investment funds, Level 2 for the unsecured bonds and Level 3 for investments in mortgage backed securities, as defined by the FASB standard for fair value measurements as discussed later in Note 2), and any unrealized gain or loss is recorded as other comprehensive income. There were no other than temporary impairment charges for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 . Realized gains and losses, interest income, and amortization of purchase discounts are included in interest and other income on the consolidated statements of income. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , marketable securities consisted primarily of investment-grade unsecured bonds, common stock, investments in mortgage backed securities, and investment funds that invest in U.S. treasury or agency securities. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , the Company classified its investments in mortgage backed securities, which mature in November 2019 and September 2020 , as held to maturity, and accordingly, these securities are stated at their amortized cost. The discount on the mortgage backed securities is being amortized to interest income based on an estimated yield and the maturity date of the securities. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 marketable securities consist of the following ($ in thousands): December 31, 2017 Amortized Cost Gross Unrealized Gain (Loss) Carrying Value Available for sale: Investment-grade unsecured bonds $ 4,365 $ (40 ) $ 4,325 Investment funds - debt securities 27,914 (29 ) 27,885 Investment funds - U.S. treasuries 10,999 (55 ) 10,944 Common stock and stock funds 34,329 2,973 37,302 Held to maturity: Mortgage backed securities 109,548 — 109,548 Total - Marketable securities $ 187,155 $ 2,849 $ 190,004 December 31, 2016 Amortized Cost Gross Unrealized Gain (Loss) Carrying Value Available for sale: Investment funds - debt securities $ 19,604 $ (73 ) $ 19,531 Investment funds - U.S. treasuries 10,022 (22 ) 10,000 Common stock and stock funds 13,696 1,569 15,265 Held to maturity: Mortgage backed securities 94,393 — 94,393 Total - Marketable securities $ 137,715 $ 1,474 $ 139,189 The Company uses the specific identification method to determine the cost basis of a security sold and to reclassify amounts from accumulated other comprehensive loss for securities sold. For the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , the proceeds from sales and maturities of available for sale securities totaled $35.5 million , $30.5 million and $3.3 million , respectively. For the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 these sales resulted in gains of $1.9 million , gains of $5.7 million , and no net gains or losses, respectively. For the year ended December 31, 2015, the proceeds from the sale of other investments totaled $5.6 million , which resulted in a realized gain of $0.6 million recorded in interest and other income on the consolidated statements of income. There were no such sales for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016. (h) Notes Receivable Notes receivable relate to real estate financing arrangements including mezzanine and bridge loans and are secured by real estate. Interest is recognized over the life of the note as interest income. Each note is analyzed to determine if it is impaired. A note is impaired if it is probable that the Company will not collect all contractually due principal and interest. The Company does not accrue interest when a note is considered impaired and an allowance is recorded for any principal and previously accrued interest that are not believed to be collectible. All cash receipts on impaired notes are applied to reduce the principal amount of such notes until the principal has been recovered and, thereafter, are recognized as interest income. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , no notes were impaired. (i) Capitalization Policy The Company capitalizes all direct and certain indirect costs, including interest, real estate taxes and insurance, incurred during development and redevelopment activities. Interest is capitalized on real estate assets that require a period of time to get them ready for their intended use. The amount of interest capitalized is based upon the average amount of accumulated development expenditures during the reporting period. Included in capitalized costs are management’s estimates of the direct and incremental personnel costs and indirect project costs associated with the Company's development and redevelopment activities. Indirect project costs consist primarily of personnel costs associated with construction administration and development, including accounting, legal fees, and various corporate and community onsite costs that clearly relate to projects under development. Those costs as well as capitalized development and redevelopment fees totaled $20.3 million , $18.5 million and $17.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively, most of which relates to development projects. The Company capitalizes leasing costs associated with the lease-up of development communities and amortizes the costs over the life of the leases. The amounts capitalized are immaterial for all periods presented. (j) Fair Value of Financial Instruments The Company values its financial instruments based on the fair value hierarchy of valuation techniques described in the FASB’s accounting standard for fair value measurements. Level 1 inputs are unadjusted, quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities at the measurement date. Level 2 inputs include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets and inputs other than quoted prices observable for the asset or liability. Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs for the asset or liability. The Company uses Level 1 inputs for the fair values of its cash equivalents and its marketable securities except for unsecured bonds and mortgage backed securities. The Company uses Level 2 inputs for its investments in unsecured bonds, notes receivable, notes payable, and derivative assets/liabilities. These inputs include interest rates for similar financial instruments. The Company’s valuation methodology for derivatives is described in Note 8. The Company uses Level 3 inputs to estimate the fair value of its mortgage backed securities. The Company’s assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment, and considers factors specific to the asset or liability. Management believes that the carrying amounts of the outstanding balances under its lines of credit, and notes and other receivables approximate fair value as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , because interest rates, yields and other terms for these instruments are consistent with yields and other terms currently available for similar instruments. Management has estimated that the fair value of fixed rate debt with a carrying value of $4.9 billion and $5.1 billion , including premiums, discounts and debt financing costs, at December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively, to be $5.0 billion and $5.1 billion . Management has estimated the fair value of the Company’s $792.9 million and $499.7 million of variable rate debt, net of debt financing costs, at December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively, to be $793.9 million and $502.8 million based on the terms of existing mortgage notes payable, unsecured debt, and variable rate demand notes compared to those available in the marketplace. Management believes that the carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, accounts payable and accrued liabilities, construction payables, other liabilities and dividends payable approximate fair value as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 due to the short-term maturity of these instruments. Marketable securities, except mortgage backed securities, and derivatives are carried at fair value as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 . At December 31, 2017 and 2016 , the Company’s investments in mortgage backed securities had a carrying value of $109.5 million and $94.4 million , respectively. The Company estimated the fair value of investment in mortgage backed securities at December 31, 2017 and 2016 to be approximately $120.7 million and $108.8 million , respectively. The Company determines the fair value of the mortgage backed securities based on unobservable inputs (Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy) considering the assumptions that market participants would make in valuing these securities. Assumptions such as estimated default rates and discount rates are used to determine expected, discounted cash flows to estimate the fair value. (k) Interest Rate Protection, Swap, and Forward Contracts The Company uses interest rate swaps, interest rate caps, and total return swap contracts to manage interest rate risks. The Company’s objective in using derivatives is to add stability to interest expense and to manage its exposure to interest rate movements or other identified risks. To accomplish this objective, the Company primarily uses interest rate swaps and interest rate caps as part of its cash flow hedging strategy. The Company records all derivatives on its consolidated balance sheets at fair value. The accounting for changes in the fair value of derivatives depends on the intended use of the derivative and the resulting designation. Derivatives used to hedge the exposure to changes in the fair value of an asset, liability, or firm commitment attributable to a particular risk, such as interest rate risk, are considered fair value hedges. Derivatives used to hedge the exposure to variability in expected future cash flows, or other types of forecasted transactions, are considered cash flow hedges. For derivatives designated for accounting purposes as fair value hedges, changes in the fair value of the derivative and the hedged item related to the hedged risk are recognized in earnings. For derivatives designated for accounting purposes as cash flow hedges, the effective portion of changes in the fair value of the derivative is initially reported in other comprehensive income (outside of earnings) and subsequently reclassified to earnings when the hedged transaction affects earnings, and the ineffective portion of changes in the fair value of the derivative is recognized directly in earnings. The Company assesses the initial and ongoing effectiveness of each hedging relationship by comparing the changes in fair value or cash flows of the derivative hedging instrument with the changes in fair value or cash flows of the designated hedged item or transaction. For derivatives not designated for accounting purposes as cash flow hedges, changes in fair value are recognized in earnings. All of the Company’s interest rate swaps are considered cash flow hedges. (l) Income Taxes Generally in any year in which Essex qualifies as a real estate investment trust (“REIT”) under the Internal Revenue Code (the “IRC”), it is not subject to federal income tax on that portion of its income that it distributes to stockholders. No provision for federal income taxes, other than the taxable REIT subsidiaries discussed below, has been made in the accompanying consolidated financial statements for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2017 as Essex has elected to be and believes it qualifies under the IRC as a REIT and has made distributions during the periods in amounts to preclude Essex from paying federal income tax. In order to maintain compliance with REIT tax rules, the Company utilizes taxable REIT subsidiaries for various revenue generating or investment activities. The taxable REIT subsidiaries are consolidated by the Company. In general, the activities and tax related provisions, assets and liabilities are not material. In 2016, a taxable REIT subsidiary sold two properties that it had acquired in 2007, resulting in the Company's recognition of a deferred income tax expense of approximately $4.4 million . On December 22, 2017 the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (“Tax Act”) was signed into law, which reduced the federal income tax rate from 35% to 21% effective January 1, 2018. As a result of the Tax Act, we remeasured our net deferred tax liabilities at December 31, 2017, accordingly a net tax benefit of $1.5 million was recorded. As a partnership, the Operating Partnership is not subject to federal or state income taxes, except that in order to maintain Essex's compliance with REIT tax rules that are applicable to Essex, the Operating Partnership utilizes taxable REIT subsidiaries for various revenue generating or investment activities. The taxable REIT subsidiaries are consolidated by the Operating Partnership. The status of cash dividends distributed for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 related to common stock and Series H preferred stock are classified for tax purposes as follows: 2017 2016 2015 Common Stock Ordinary income 84.04 % 86.68 % 99.28 % Capital gain 13.20 % 7.11 % 0.72 % Unrecaptured section 1250 capital gain 2.76 % 6.21 % — % 100.00 % 100.00 % 100.00 % 2017 2016 2015 Series H Preferred stock Ordinary income — % 86.68 % 99.28 % Capital gains — % 7.11 % 0.72 % Unrecaptured section 1250 capital gain — % 6.21 % — % — % 100.00 % 100.00 % (m) Equity-based Compensation The cost of share and unit based compensation awards is measured at the grant date based on the estimated fair value of the awards. The estimated fair value of stock options and restricted stock granted by the Company are being amortized over the vesting period. The estimated grant date fair values of the long term incentive plan units (discussed in Note 12) are being amortized over the expected service periods. (n) Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss, by Component Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss, Net, by Component Essex Property Trust, Inc. ($ in thousands) Change in fair value and amortization of swap settlements Unrealized gains on available for sale securities Total Balance at December 31, 2016 $ (32,963 ) $ 865 $ (32,098 ) Other comprehensive income before reclassification 24,634 3,176 27,810 Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss (12,312 ) (1,846 ) (14,158 ) Other comprehensive income 12,322 1,330 13,652 Balance at December 31, 2017 $ (20,641 ) $ 2,195 $ (18,446 ) Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss, by Component Essex Portfolio, L.P. ($ in thousands) Change in fair value and amortization of swap settlements Unrealized gains on available for sale securities Total Balance at December 31, 2016 $ (30,161 ) $ 813 $ (29,348 ) Other comprehensive income before reclassification 25,477 3,284 28,761 Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss (12,733 ) (1,909 ) (14,642 ) Other comprehensive income 12,744 1,375

Real Estate Investments

Real Estate Investments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Real Estate Investments, Net [Abstract]
Real Estate Investments	Real Estate Investments (a) Acquisitions of Real Estate For the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company purchased two communities consisting of 1,328 apartment homes for $273.0 million . The table below summarizes acquisition activity for the year ended December 31, 2017 ($ in millions): Property Name Location Apartment Homes Essex Ownership Percentage Quarter in 2017 Purchase Price Palm Valley (1) San Jose, CA 1,098 100 % Q1 $ 183.0 Sage at Cupertino (2) San Jose, CA 230 41 % Q1 90.0 Total 2017 1,328 $ 273.0 (1) In January 2017, the Company purchased its joint venture partner's 50.0% membership interest in the Palm Valley co-investment for a purchase price of $183.0 million . (2) In March 2017, the Company converted its existing $15.3 million preferred equity investment in Sage at Cupertino into a 40.5% equity ownership interest in the property. The Company issued DownREIT limited partnership units to the seller for the remaining equity based on an estimated property valuation of $90.0 million and an encumbrance of $52.0 million of mortgage debt. Based on a consolidation analysis performed by the Company, the property was consolidated as the Company controls the entity. The consolidated fair value of the acquisitions listed above were included on the Company's consolidated balance sheet as follows: $169.5 million was included in land and land improvements, $365.7 million was included in buildings and improvements, and $3.2 million was included in prepaid expenses and other assets, within the Company's consolidated balance sheets. For the year ended December 31, 2016, the Company purchased four communities consisting of 753 apartment homes for $333.7 million . (b) Sales of Real Estate Investments For the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company sold one community, Jefferson at Hollywood, a 270 apartment home community located in Hollywood, CA consisting of 270 apartment homes for $132.5 million resulting in gains totaling $26.2 million . The table below summarizes disposition activity of operating communities for the year ended December 31, 2017 ($ in millions): Property Name Location Apartment Homes Essex Ownership Percentage Ownership Quarter in 2017 Sales Price Gains Jefferson at Hollywood Hollywood, CA 270 100 % EPLP Q1 $ 132.5 $ 26.2 Total 2017 270 $ 132.5 $ 26.2 During 2016, the Company sold three communities consisting of 323 apartment homes for $80.8 million resulting in gains totaling $14.0 million , net of $4.4 million deferred tax on gain on sale of real estate. In January 2016, the Company sold its former headquarters office building, located in Palo Alto, CA, for gross proceeds of $18.0 million , resulting in a gain of $9.6 million , which is included in the line item gain on sale of real estate and land in the Company's consolidated statement of income. During 2015, the Company sold two communities, consisting of 848 apartment homes, for $308.8 million resulting in gains totaling $44.9 million , which are included in the line item gain on sale of real estate and land in the Company's consolidated statement of income. In March 2015, the Company sold two commercial buildings, located in Emeryville, CA for $13.0 million , resulting in gains of $2.4 million , which are included in gain on sale of real estate and land in the Company's consolidated statement of income. (c) Real Estate Assets Held for Sale, net As of December 31, 2017, the Company had no assets classified as held for sale. As of December 31, 2016, Jefferson at Hollywood, a 270 apartment home community, located in Hollywood, CA, was classified as held for sale. The carrying value of $102.0 million is included in real estate assets held for sale, net, on the Company's consolidated balance sheet. See Section (b) above, Sales of Real Estate Investments, of this Note 3 for additional details on the sale of Jefferson at Hollywood in 2017. (d) Co-investments The Company has joint ventures and preferred equity investments in co-investments which are accounted for under the equity method. The co-investments’ accounting policies are similar to the Company’s accounting policies. The co-investments own, operate, and develop apartment communities. In January 2017, the Company purchased its joint venture partner's 50% interest in the Palm Valley co-investment, for a contract price of $183.0 million . Prior to the purchase, an approximately $220.0 million mortgage encumbered the property. Concurrent with the closing of the acquisition, the entire mortgage balance was repaid and the property is now unencumbered. Palm Valley has 1,098 apartment homes, within four communities and is located in San Jose, CA. As a result of this acquisition, the Company realized a gain on remeasurement of co-investment of $88.6 million upon consolidation. In March 2017, the Company converted its existing $15.3 million preferred equity investment in Sage at Cupertino, a 230 apartment home community located in San Jose, CA, into a 40.5% common equity ownership interest in the property. The Company issued DownREIT limited partnership units to the other members, including an affiliate of the Marcus & Millichap Company, based on an estimated property valuation of $90.0 million . See Note 5, Related Party Transactions, for additional details. At the time of acquisition, the property was encumbered by a $52.0 million bridge loan from the Company. The Company consolidates the property based on a VIE analysis performed by the Company. In August 2017, a Company co-investment, Wesco I, LLC ("Wesco I"), sold Madrid, a 230 apartment home community located in Mission Viejo, CA, for $83.0 million , which resulted in a gain of $10.1 million for the Company, recorded in the consolidated statement of income as equity income from co-investments. Wesco I used $30.1 million of the proceeds to repay the loan on the property. In August 2017, the Company formed a new joint venture entity, Wesco V, LLC ("Wesco V"), with an institutional partner. Each partner has a 50.0% ownership interest and an initial equity commitment of $150.0 million . The joint venture is unconsolidated for financial reporting purposes. Also in August 2017, Wesco V acquired 8th & Republican and 360 Residences. 8th & Republican, a 211 apartment home community located in Seattle, WA, was acquired for a total contract price of $101.3 million . The property was encumbered by a $55.0 million related party bridge loan from the Company, which was paid off in November 2017. See Note 5, Related Party Transactions, for additional details related to the related party bridge loan. 360 Residences, a 213 apartment home community, located in San Jose, CA, was acquired for a total contract price of $133.5 million . In connection with this acquisition, Wesco V assumed $57.9 million of mortgage debt, with an effective interest rate of 3.4% and a maturity date of May 2022. In October 2017, the Wesco I joint venture operating agreement was amended to extend the venture. As part of the amendment, the Company and joint venture partner agreed to a promote of $38.0 million . The Company agreed to contribute the promote to the joint venture, resulting in an increase in the Company’s ownership interest in Wesco I to approximately 58.0% . In November 2017, the Company formed a new joint venture entity, BEX III, LLC ("BEX III), with an institutional partner. Each partner has a 50.0% ownership interest. The joint venture is unconsolidated for financial reporting purposes. Also in November 2017, BEX III acquired The Village at Toluca Lake, a 145 apartment home community, located in Burbank, CA, for a total contract price of $59.0 million . The property is encumbered by a $29.5 million related party bridge loan from the Company, which accrues interest at 3.5% and is scheduled to mature in March 2018. See Note 5, Related Party Transactions, for additional details related to the related party bridge loan. In December 2017, a Company co-investment, BEXAEW, LLC ("BEXAEW"), sold two apartment home communities located in Seattle, WA for aggregate consideration of $160.3 million , which resulted in a gain of $34.8 million for the Company, recorded in the consolidated statement of income as equity income from co-investments. BEXAEW used $66.2 million of the proceeds to repay the loan on the property. The carrying values of the Company’s co-investments as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 are as follows ($ in thousands): Weighted Average Essex Ownership December 31, Percentage (1) 2017 2016 Membership interest/Partnership interest in: CPPIB 54 % $ 500,287 $ 422,068 Wesco I, III and IV, and V 53 % 214,408 180,687 Palm Valley (2) 50 % — 68,396 BEXAEW, BEX II and BEX III (3) 50 % 13,827 67,041 Other 52 % 51,810 43,713 Total operating and other co-investments, net 780,332 781,905 Total development co-investments, net 50 % 73,770 157,317 Total preferred interest co-investments (includes related party investments of $15.7 million and $35.9 million as of December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively - FN 5 - Related Party Transactions for further discussion) 265,156 222,053 Total co-investments $ 1,119,258 $ 1,161,275 (1) Weighted average Essex ownership percentages are as of December 31, 2017. (2) In January 2017, the Company purchased its joint venture partner's 50.0% interest in Palm Valley and as a result of this acquisition, the Company consolidates Palm Valley. (3) As of December 31, 2017, the Company's investment in BEX II was classified as a liability of $36.7 million . The combined summarized financial information of co-investments is as follows ($ in thousands): December 31, 2017 2016 Combined balance sheets: (1) Rental properties and real estate under development $ 3,722,778 $ 3,807,245 Other assets 110,333 121,505 Total assets $ 3,833,111 $ 3,928,750 Debt $ 1,705,051 $ 1,617,639 Other liabilities 45,515 74,607 Equity 2,082,545 2,236,504 Total liabilities and equity $ 3,833,111 $ 3,928,750 Company's share of equity $ 1,155,984 $ 1,161,275 Years ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 Combined statements of income: (1) Property revenues $ 312,841 $ 289,011 $ 260,175 Property operating expenses (110,583 ) (99,637 ) (93,067 ) Net operating income 202,258 189,374 167,108 Gain on sale of real estate 90,663 28,291 14 Interest expense (62,844 ) (46,894 ) (44,834 ) General and administrative (9,091 ) (7,448 ) (5,879 ) Depreciation and amortization (118,048 ) (103,986 ) (103,613 ) Net income $ 102,938 $ 59,337 $ 12,796 Company's share of net income (2) $ 86,445 $ 48,698 $ 21,861 (1) Includes preferred equity investments held by the Company. (2) Includes the Company's share of equity income from co-investments and preferred equity investments, gain on sales of co-investments, co-investment promote income and income from early redemption of preferred equity investments. Includes related party income of $1.9 million , $3.4 million , and $3.7 million for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016, and 2015, respectively. Operating Co-investments As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company, through several joint ventures, owned 10,810 and 11,274 apartment homes, respectively, in operating communities. The Company’s book value of these co-investments was $780.3 million and $781.9 million at December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. Development Co-Investments As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company, through several joint ventures, owned 814 and 1,427 apartment homes, respectively, in development communities. The Company’s book value of these co-investments was $73.8 million and $157.3 million at December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. In 2017, the Company entered into a joint venture to develop Ohlone, a multi-family community comprised of 269 apartment homes located in San Jose, CA. The Company has a 50% ownership interest in the development which has a projected total cost of $136.0 million . Construction began in the third quarter of 2017 and the community is expected to open in the third quarter of 2019. The Company has also committed to a $28.9 million preferred equity investment in the project, which accrues an annualized preferred return of 10.0% and matures in 2020. In 2015, the Company entered into a joint venture to develop 500 Folsom, a multi-family community comprised of 545 apartment homes located in San Francisco, CA. The Company has a 50% ownership interest in the development which has a projected total cost of $415.0 million . Construction began in the fourth quarter of 2015 and the property is projected to open in the second quarter of 2019. Preferred Equity Investments As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company held preferred equity investment interests in several joint-ventures which own real estate. The Company’s book value of these preferred equity investments was $265.2 million and $222.1 million at December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively, and is included in the co-investments line in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. During 2017, the Company made commitments to fund $153.8 million in eight preferred equity investments. These investments have initial accrued preferred returns ranging from 9.5% - 11.3% , with maturities ranging from March 2020 to August 2024. As of December 31, 2017, the Company had funded $77.5 million of the $153.8 million commitment. During 2016, the Company funded $116.1 million in five preferred equity investment. These investments have initial accrued preferred returns ranging from 10.0% - 12.0% , with maturities ranging from November 2019 to November 2020. In April 2017, the Company received cash of $12.6 million from the partial redemption of a preferred equity investment in a joint venture that holds a property located in Seattle, WA. The Company recorded a reduction of $12.4 million in its preferred equity investment. The Company recognized a gain of $0.3 million as a result of this early redemption, which is included in equity income from co-investments in the consolidated statements of income. In August 2017, the Company received cash of $11.7 million for a full redemption of a preferred equity investment class and $6.9 million for a partial redemption of another preferred equity investment class in a joint venture that holds a property in San Jose, CA. The Company's remaining preferred equity investment in this joint venture was $13.4 million as of December 31, 2017. In October 2017, the Company received cash of $5.1 million for the full redemption of a preferred equity investment class in a joint venture that holds property in Concord, CA. The Company recorded a reduction of $5.0 million in its preferred equity investment. The Company recognized a gain of $0.1 million as a result of this early redemption, which is included in equity income from co-investments in the consolidated statements of income. (e) Real Estate under Development The Company defines development projects as new communities that are being constructed, or are newly constructed and are in a phase of lease-up and have not yet reached stabilized operations. As of December 31, 2017 , the Company's development pipeline was comprised of five consolidated projects under development, two unconsolidated joint venture development projects and various consolidated predevelopment projects, aggregating 1,982 apartment homes, with total incurred costs of $557.0 million .

Notes and Other Receivables

Notes and Other Receivables	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Notes and Other Receivables [Abstract]
Notes and Other Receivables	Notes and Other Receivables Notes receivables, secured by real estate, and other receivables consist of the following as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 ($ in thousands): 2017 2016 Notes receivable, secured, bearing interest at 10.00%, due May 2021 $ 13,762 $ — Note receivable, secured, bearing interest at 10.75%, due September 2020 29,318 17,685 Related party note receivable, secured, bearing interest at 9.50%, due October 2019 (1) 6,656 6,593 Related party note receivable, secured, bearing interest at 3.50%, due March 2018 (1) 29,500 — Notes and other receivables from affiliates (2) 5,061 4,695 Other receivables 16,629 11,997 Total notes and receivables $ 100,926 $ 40,970 (1) See Note 5, Related Party Transactions, for additional details. (2) These amounts consist of short-term loans outstanding and due from various joint ventures as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. See Note 5, Related Party Transactions, for additional details.

Related Party Transactions

Related Party Transactions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Related Party Transactions	Related Party Transactions The Company has adopted written related party transaction guidelines that are intended to cover transactions in which the Company (including entities it controls) is a party and in which any “related person” has a direct or indirect interest. A “related person” means any person who is or was (since the beginning of the last fiscal year) a Company director, director nominee, or executive officer, any beneficial owner of more than 5% of the Company’s outstanding common stock, and any immediate family member of any of the foregoing persons. A related person may be considered to have an indirect interest in a transaction if he or she (i) is an owner, director, officer or employee of or otherwise associated with another company that is engaging in a transaction with the Company, or (ii) otherwise, through one or more entities or arrangements, has an indirect financial interest in or personal benefit from the transaction. The related person transaction review and approval process is intended to determine, among any other relevant issues, the dollar amount involved in the transaction; the nature and value of any related person’s direct or indirect interest (if any) in the transaction; and whether or not (i) a related person’s interest is material, (ii) the transaction is fair, reasonable, and serves the best interest of the Company and its shareholders, and (iii) whether the transaction or relationship should be entered into, continued or ended. The Company’s Chairman and founder, Mr. George Marcus, is the Chairman of the Marcus & Millichap Company (“MMC”), which is a parent company of a diversified group of real estate service, investment, and development firms. Mr. Marcus is also the Co-Chairman of Marcus & Millichap, Inc. (“MMI”), and Mr. Marcus owns a controlling interest in MMI. MMI is a national brokerage firm listed on the NYSE that underwent its initial public offering in 2013. For the year ended December 31, 2016, the Company paid brokerage commissions totaling $1.1 million to affiliates of MMC related to real estate transactions. There were no brokerage commissions paid by the Company to MMI or its affiliates during 2017 and 2015. The Company charges certain fees relating to its co-investments for asset management, property management, development and redevelopment services. These fees from affiliates total $12.6 million , $12.4 million , and $15.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively. All of these fees are net of intercompany amounts eliminated by the Company. The Company netted development and redevelopment fees of $3.0 million , $4.2 million , and $6.7 million against general and administrative expenses for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively. As described in Note 4, the Company has provided short-term bridge loans to affiliates. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , $5.1 million and $4.7 million , respectively, of short-term loans remained outstanding due from joint venture affiliates and are classified within notes and other receivables in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. In November 2016, the Company provided a $6.6 million mezzanine loan to a limited liability company in which MMC holds a significant ownership interest through subsidiaries. The mezzanine loan had an outstanding balance of $6.7 million and $6.6 million , as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively, and is classified within notes and other receivables in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. In March 2017, the Company converted its existing $15.3 million preferred equity investment in Sage at Cupertino, a 230 apartment home community located in San Jose, CA, into a 40.5% common equity ownership interest in the property. The Company issued DownREIT limited partnership units to the other members, including an MMC affiliate, based on an estimated property valuation of $90.0 million . At the time of the conversion, the property was encumbered by $52.0 million of mortgage debt. As a result of this transaction, the Company consolidates the property, based on a consolidation analysis performed by the Company. In August 2017, the Company provided a $55.0 million related party bridge loan to a property acquired by Wesco V, LLC. The note receivable accrued interest at 3.5% and was paid off in November 2017. In November 2017, the Company provided a $29.5 million related party bridge loan to a property acquired by BEX III, LLC. The note receivable accrues interest at 3.5% and is scheduled to mature on March 9, 2018. The bridge loan is classified within notes and other receivables in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets and had an outstanding balance of $29.5 million as of December 31, 2017. In 2015, the Company made preferred equity investments totaling $20.0 million in three entities affiliated with MMC that own apartment communities in California. The Company earns a 9.5% preferred return on each such investment. One $5.0 million investment, which was scheduled to mature in 2022, was fully redeemed in 2017. The remaining two investments are scheduled to mature in 2022. In January 2013, the Company invested $8.6 million as a preferred equity interest investment in an entity affiliated with MMC that owns an apartment development in Redwood City, CA. In March 2015 the Company's preferred interest investment was prepaid and the Company recognized a gain of $0.5 million as a result of the prepayment. In 2010, an Executive Vice President of the Company invested $4.0 million for a 3% limited partnership interest in a partnership with the Company that owns Essex Skyline at MacArthur Place. The Executive Vice President’s investment is equal to a pro-rata share of the contributions to the limited partnership. The Executive Vice President’s investment also receives pro-rata distributions resulting from distributable cash generated by the property if and when distributions are made.

Unsecured Debt

Unsecured Debt	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Unsecured Debt	Unsecured Debt Essex does not have any indebtedness as all debt is incurred by the Operating Partnership. Essex guarantees the Operating Partnership’s unsecured debt including the revolving credit facilities up to the maximum amounts and for the full term of the facilities. Unsecured debt consists of the following as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 ($ in thousands): 2017 2016 Weighted Average Maturity In Years Unsecured bonds private placement - fixed rate $ 274,427 $ 314,190 3.1 Term loan - variable rate 348,545 98,189 4.1 Bonds public offering - fixed rate 2,878,737 2,834,400 6.4 Unsecured debt, net (1) 3,501,709 3,246,779 Lines of credit (2) 179,000 125,000 Total unsecured debt $ 3,680,709 $ 3,371,779 Weighted average interest rate on fixed rate unsecured bonds private placement and bonds public offering 3.7 % 3.6 % Weighted average interest rate on variable rate term loan 2.5 % 2.3 % Weighted average interest rate on lines of credit 2.3 % 1.8 % (1) Includes unamortized discount of $5.2 million and $0.1 million and unamortized debt issuance costs of $18.1 million and $18.1 million as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively. (2) Lines of credit, related to the Company's two lines of unsecured credit aggregating $1.03 billion , excludes unamortized debt issuance costs of $3.2 million and $3.3 million as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. These debt issuance costs are included in prepaid expenses and other assets on the consolidated balance sheets. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , the Company had $275.0 million and $315.0 million of private placement unsecured bonds outstanding at an average effective interest rate of 4.5% , for both periods. The following is a summary of the Company’s unsecured private placement bonds as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 ($ in thousands): Maturity 2017 2016 Coupon Rate Senior unsecured private placement notes September 2017 $ — $ 40,000 4.50 % Senior unsecured private placement notes December 2019 75,000 75,000 4.92 % Senior unsecured private placement notes April 2021 100,000 100,000 4.27 % Senior unsecured private placement notes June 2021 50,000 50,000 4.30 % Senior unsecured private placement notes August 2021 50,000 50,000 4.37 % $ 275,000 $ 315,000 As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , the Company had unsecured term loans outstanding of $350.0 million and $100.0 million at an average interest rate of 2.5% and 2.3% , respectively. These loans are included in the line “Term loan - variable rate” in the table above, and as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , the carrying value, net of debt issuance costs, was $348.5 million and $98.2 million , respectively, and the term loan matures in February 2022. The Company had entered into five interest rate swap contracts, for a term of five years with a notional amount totaling $175.0 million , which will effectively convert the interest rate on $175.0 million of the term loan to a fixed rate of 2.3% . These interest rate swaps are accounted for as cash flow hedges. In April 2017, the Company issued $350.0 million of senior unsecured notes due on May 1, 2027 with a coupon rate of 3.625% per annum and are payable on May 1 and November 1 of each year, beginning on November 1, 2017 (the "2027 Notes"). The 2027 notes were offered to investors at a price of 99.423% of par value. The 2027 Notes are general unsecured senior obligations of the Operating Partnership, rank equally in right of payment with all other senior unsecured indebtedness of the Operating Partnership and are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by Essex Property Trust, Inc. These bonds are included in the line “Bonds public offering-fixed rate” in the table above, and as of December 31, 2017 , the carrying value of the 2027 Notes, net of discount and debt issuance costs was $345.2 million . In April 2016, the Company issued $450.0 million of senior unsecured notes due on April 15, 2026 with a coupon rate of 3.375% per annum and are payable on April 15 th and October 15 th of each year, beginning October 15, 2016 (the "2026 Notes"). The 2026 Notes were offered to investors at a price of 99.386% of par value. The 2026 Notes are general unsecured senior obligations of the Operating Partnership, rank equally in right of payment with all other senior unsecured indebtedness of the Operating Partnership and are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by Essex Property Trust, Inc. These bonds are included in the line “Bonds public offering-fixed rate” in the table above, and as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , the carrying value of the 2026 Notes, net of discount and debt issuance costs was $444.4 million and $443.7 million , respectively. In March 2015, the Company issued $500.0 million of senior unsecured notes due on April 1, 2025 with a coupon rate of 3.5% per annum and are payable on April 1 st and October 1 st of each year, beginning October 1, 2015 (the "2025 Notes"). The 2025 Notes were offered to investors at a price of 99.747% of par value. The 2025 Notes are general unsecured senior obligations of the Operating Partnership, rank equally in right of payment with all other senior unsecured indebtedness of the Operating Partnership and are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by Essex Property Trust, Inc. These bonds are included in the line “Bonds public offering-fixed rate” in the table above, and as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , the carrying value of the 2025 Notes, net of discount and debt issuance costs was $495.9 million and $495.4 million , respectively. In April 2014, the Company assumed $900.0 million aggregate principal amount of BRE Property Inc.’s 5.500% senior notes due 2017; 5.200% senior notes due 2021; and 3.375% senior notes due 2023 (together the “BRE Notes”). These notes are included in the line "Bonds public offering-fixed rate" in the table above, and as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , the carrying value of the BRE Notes, plus unamortized premium was $603.2 million and $907.1 million , respectively. In March 2017, the Company paid off $300.0 million of 5.500% senior notes, at maturity. In April 2014, the Company issued $400.0 million of senior unsecured notes due on May 1, 2024 with a coupon rate of 3.875% per annum and are payable on May 1 st and November 1 st of each year, beginning November 1, 2014 (the "2024 Notes"). The 2024 Notes were offered to investors at a price of 99.234% of par value. The 2024 Notes are general unsecured senior obligations of the Operating Partnership, rank equally in right of payment with all other senior unsecured indebtedness of the Operating Partnership and are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by Essex Property Trust, Inc. These bonds are included in the line "Bonds public offering-fixed rate" in the table above, and as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , the carrying value of the 2024 Notes, net of discount and debt issuance costs was $395.8 million and $395.1 million , respectively. In April 2013, the Company issued $300.0 million of senior unsecured notes due on May 1, 2023 with a coupon rate of 3.25% per annum and are payable on May 1 st and November 1 st of each year, beginning November 1, 2013 (the "2023 Notes"). The 2023 Notes were offered to investors at a price of 99.152% of par value. The 2023 Notes are general unsecured senior obligations of the Operating Partnership, rank equally in right of payment with all other senior unsecured indebtedness of the Operating Partnership and are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by Essex Property Trust, Inc. These bonds are included in the line “Bonds public offering-fixed rate” in the table above, and as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , the carrying value of the 2023 Notes, net of discount and debt issuance costs was $297.0 million and $296.5 million , respectively. During the third quarter of 2012, the Company issued $300.0 million of senior unsecured notes due August 2022 with a coupon rate of 3.625% per annum and are payable on February 15th and August 15th of each year, beginning February 15, 2013 (the "2022 Notes"). The 2022 Notes were offered to investors at a price of 98.99% of par value. The 2022 Notes are general unsecured senior obligations of the Operating Partnership, rank equally in right of payment with all other senior unsecured indebtedness of the Operating Partnership and are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by Essex Property Trust, Inc. These bonds are included in the line "Bonds public offering-fixed rate" in the table above, and as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , the carrying value of the 2022 Notes, net of unamortized discount and debt issuance costs was $297.2 million and $296.6 million , respectively. The following is a summary of the Company’s senior unsecured notes as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 ($ in thousands): Maturity 2017 2016 Coupon Senior notes March 2017 $ — $ 300,000 5.500 % Senior notes March 2021 300,000 300,000 5.200 % Senior notes August 2022 300,000 300,000 3.625 % Senior notes January 2023 300,000 300,000 3.375 % Senior notes May 2023 300,000 300,000 3.250 % Senior notes May 2024 400,000 400,000 3.875 % Senior notes April 2025 500,000 500,000 3.500 % Senior notes April 2026 450,000 450,000 3.375 % Senior notes May 2027 350,000 — 3.625 % $ 2,900,000 $ 2,850,000 The aggregate scheduled principal payments of unsecured debt payable, excluding lines of credit, at December 31, 2017 are as follows ($ in thousands): 2018 $ — 2019 75,000 2020 — 2021 (1) 500,000 2022 650,000 Thereafter 2,300,000 $ 3,525,000 (1) Amount does not include $179.0 million outstanding on the Company's lines of credit as of December 31, 2017, that becomes due in December 2021 in accordance with the January 2018 amendment. As of December 31, 2017 , the Company’s $1.0 billion credit facility had an interest rate of LIBOR plus 0.90% , which was based on a tiered rate structure tied to the Company’s corporate ratings. The Company’s $1.0 billion credit facility was scheduled to mature in December 2020 with one 18 -month extension, exercisable at the Company’s option. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , the balance of the $1.0 billion credit facility was $179.0 million and $125.0 million , respectively. In January 2018, the Company amended the $1.0 billion credit facility such that the line's capacity was increased to $1.2 billion and the scheduled maturity date was extended to December 2021, with one - 18 month extension, exercisable at the Company's option. The underlying interest rate is based on a tiered rate structure tied to the Company's corporate ratings and is at LIBOR plus 0.875% . As of December 31, 2017 , the Company’s $25.0 million working capital unsecured line of credit had an interest rate of LIBOR plus 0.90% , which was based on a tiered rate structure tied to the Company’s credit ratings. The $25.0 million credit facility was scheduled to mature in January 2018. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , there was a zero balance outstanding on this unsecured line. In January 2018, the Company amended the $25.0 million credit facility such that the line's capacity was increased to $35.0 million and the scheduled maturity date was extended to January 2020. The underlying interest rate on the amended line is based on a tiered rate structure tied to the Company's corporate ratings and is at LIBOR plus 0.875% . The Company’s unsecured lines of credit and unsecured debt agreements contain debt covenants related to limitations on indebtedness and liabilities, and maintenance of minimum levels of consolidated earnings before depreciation, interest and amortization. The Company was in compliance with the debt covenants as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 .

Mortgage Notes Payable

Mortgage Notes Payable	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Notes Payable [Abstract]
Mortgage Notes Payable	Mortgage Notes Payable Essex does not have any indebtedness as all debt is incurred by the Operating Partnership. Mortgage notes payable consist of the following as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 ($ in thousands): 2017 2016 Fixed rate mortgage notes payable $ 1,739,856 $ 1,911,699 Variable rate mortgage notes payable (1) 268,561 279,782 Total mortgage notes payable (2) $ 2,008,417 $ 2,191,481 Number of properties securing mortgage notes 56 61 Remaining terms 1-29 years 1-30 years Weighted average interest rate 4.2 % 4.3 % The aggregate scheduled principal payments of mortgage notes payable at December 31, 2017 are as follows ($ in thousands): 2018 $ 202,131 2019 560,389 2020 694,921 2021 44,846 2022 42,466 Thereafter 435,808 $ 1,980,561 (1) Variable rate mortgage notes payable, including $256.6 million in bonds that have been converted to variable rate through total return swap contracts, consists of multi-family housing mortgage revenue bonds secured by deeds of trust on rental properties and guaranteed by collateral pledge agreements, payable monthly at a variable rate as defined in the Loan Agreement (approximately 2.0% at December 2017 and 1.2% at December 2016) including credit enhancement and underwriting fees. Among the terms imposed on the properties, which are security for the bonds, is a requirement that 20% of the apartment homes are subject to tenant income criteria. Principal balances are due in full at various maturity dates from May 2025 through December 2046. Of these bonds, $20.7 million are subject to various interest rate cap agreements that limit the maximum interest rate to such bonds. (2) Includes total unamortized premium of $ 33.2 million and $ 50.8 million and reduced by unamortized debt issuance costs of $5.4 million and $7.4 million as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively. For the Company’s mortgage notes payable as of December 31, 2017 , monthly interest expense and principal amortization, excluding balloon payments, totaled approximately $7.0 million and $2.5 million , respectively. Second deeds of trust accounted for none of the mortgage notes payable balance as of both December 31, 2017 and 2016. Repayment of debt before the scheduled maturity date could result in prepayment penalties. The prepayment penalty on the majority of the Company’s mortgage notes payable are computed by the greater of (a) 1% of the amount of the principal being prepaid or (b) the present value of the mortgage note payable which is calculated by multiplying the principal being prepaid by the difference between the interest rate of the mortgage note and the stated yield rate on a specified U.S. treasury security as defined in the mortgage note agreement.

Derivative Instruments and Hedg

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities	Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities The Company uses interest rate swaps, interest rate caps, and total return swap contracts to manage certain interest rate risks. The valuation of these instruments is determined using widely accepted valuation techniques including discounted cash flow analysis on the expected cash flows of each derivative. This analysis reflects the contractual terms of the derivatives, including the period to maturity, and uses observable market-based inputs, including interest rate curves. The fair values of interest rate swaps and total return swaps are determined using the market standard methodology of netting the discounted future fixed cash receipts (or payments) and the discounted expected variable cash payments (or receipts). The variable cash payments (or receipts) are based on an expectation of future interest rates (forward curves) derived from observable market interest rate curves. The Company incorporates credit valuation adjustments to appropriately reflect both its own nonperformance risk and the respective counterparty’s nonperformance risk in the fair value measurements. In November 2016, the Company replaced its $225.0 million term loan with a $350.0 million five -year term loan with a delayed draw feature. The term loan carries a variable interest rate of LIBOR plus 95 basis points. In 2016, the Company entered into four forward starting interest rate swaps (settlement payments commenced in March 2017) and in 2017, the Company entered into one forward starting interest rate swap (settlement payments commenced in March 2017) all related to the $350.0 million term loan. These five swaps, with a total notional amount of $175.0 million bear an average fixed interest rate of 2.3% and are scheduled to mature in February 2022. These derivatives qualify for hedge accounting. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company had interest rate caps, which were not accounted for as hedges, with an aggregate notional amount of $20.7 million , which effectively limits the Company’s exposure to interest rate risk by providing a ceiling on the underlying variable interest rate for a portion of the Company’s tax exempt variable rate debt. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , the aggregate carrying value of the interest rate swap contracts was an asset of $5.4 million and $4.4 million , respectively, and is included in prepaid expenses and other assets on the consolidated balance sheets, and a liability of zero and $0.03 million , respectively, and is included in other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets. The aggregate carrying value of the interest rate cap was zero on the balance sheet as of December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 . Hedge ineffectiveness related to cash flow hedges, which is reported in current year income as interest expense was $0.1 million and $0.3 million of income for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. Hedge ineffectiveness was not significant for the year ended December 31, 2015 . Additionally, the Company has entered into total return swaps that effectively convert $256.6 million of mortgage notes payable to a floating interest rate based on SIFMA plus a spread. The total return swaps provide fair market value protection on the mortgage notes payable to its counterparties during the initial period of the total return swap until the Company's option to call the mortgage notes at par can be exercised. The Company can currently call all of the total return swaps with $256.6 million of the outstanding debt at par. These derivatives do not qualify for hedge accounting and had a carrying and fair value of zero at both December 31, 2017 and 2016. These total return swaps are scheduled to mature between September 2021 and November 2022. The realized gains of $10.1 million , $11.7 million , and $5.7 million as of December 31, 2017, 2016, and 2015, respectively, were reported in current year income as total return swap income.

Lease Agreements

Lease Agreements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Leases [Abstract]
Lease Agreements	Lease Agreements As of December 31, 2017 , the Company is a lessor for one commercial building and the commercial portions of 37 mixed use communities. The tenants’ lease terms expire at various times through 2031. The future minimum non-cancelable base rent to be received under these operating leases for each of the years ending after December 31 is summarized as follows ($ in thousands): Future Minimum Rent 2018 $ 13,791 2019 13,257 2020 12,392 2021 10,745 2022 9,486 Thereafter 28,454 $ 88,125

Equity Transactions

Equity Transactions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Equity [Abstract]
Equity Transactions	Equity Transactions Preferred Securities Offerings In April 2016, the Company redeemed all of the issued and outstanding 2,950,000 shares of the Company's 7.125% Series H Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock ("Series H") for $25.00 per share for $73.8 million in cash. In connection with the Series H redemption, the Operating Partnership redeemed the Series H 7.125% Preferred Interest. The notice of redemption was given in March 2016, which resulted in the Company and the Operating Partnership each recording $2.5 million in excess of redemption value over carrying value charge to 2016 net income attributable to common stockholders and net income related to unitholders, respectively. Common Stock Offerings During 2017, the Company issued 345,444 shares of common stock, through its equity distribution program at an average price of $260.38 for proceeds of $89.1 million , net of fees and commissions. During 2016, the Company did no t issue any shares of common stock through its equity distribution program. During the first quarter of 2018 through February 15, 2018 , Essex has not issued any shares under its equity distribution program. Operating Partnership Units and Long Term Incentive Plan (“LTIP”) Units As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , the Operating Partnership had outstanding 2,054,814 and 2,056,263 operating partnership units and 213,299 and 181,027 vested LTIP units, respectively. The Operating Partnership’s general partner, Essex, owned 96.7% of the partnership interests in the Operating Partnership at both December 31, 2017 and 2016 , and Essex is responsible for the management of the Operating Partnership’s business. As the general partner of the Operating Partnership, Essex effectively controls the ability to issue common stock of Essex upon a limited partner’s notice of redemption. Essex has generally acquired Operating Partnership limited partnership units ("OP Units") upon a limited partner’s notice of redemption in exchange for shares of its common stock. The redemption provisions of OP Units owned by limited partners that permit Essex to settle in either cash or common stock at the option of Essex were further evaluated in accordance with applicable accounting guidance to determine whether temporary or permanent equity classification on the balance sheet is appropriate. The Operating Partnership evaluated this guidance, including the requirement to settle in unregistered shares, and determined that, with few exceptions, these OP Units meet the requirements to qualify for presentation as permanent equity. LTIP units represent an interest in the Operating Partnership for services rendered or to be rendered by the LTIP unit holder in its capacity as a partner, or in anticipation of becoming a partner, in the Operating Partnership. Upon the occurrence of specified events, LTIP units may over time achieve full parity with common units of the Operating Partnership for all purposes. Upon achieving full parity, LTIP units will be exchanged for an equal number of the OP Units. The collective redemption value of OP Units and LTIP units owned by the limited partners, not including Essex, was approximately $547.5 million and $520.2 million based on the closing price of Essex's common stock as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

Net Income Per Common Share and

Net Income Per Common Share and Net Income Per Common Unit	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Net Income Per Common Share and Net Income Per Unit [Abstract]
Net Income Per Common Share and Net Income Per Common Unit	Net Income Per Common Share and Net Income Per Common Unit Essex Property Trust, Inc. Basic and diluted income per share is calculated as follows for the years ended December 31 ($ in thousands, except share and per share amounts): 2017 2016 2015 Income Weighted- average Common Shares Per Common Share Amount Income Weighted- average Common Shares Per Common Share Amount Income Weighted- average Common Shares Per Common Share Amount Basic: Net income available to common stockholders 433,059 65,829,155 $ 6.58 411,124 65,471,540 $ 6.28 226,865 64,871,717 $ 3.50 Effect of Dilutive Securities Stock options — 69,100 — 116,276 — 189,968 Diluted: Net income available to common stockholders 433,059 65,898,255 $ 6.57 411,124 65,587,816 $ 6.27 226,865 65,061,685 $ 3.49 The table above excludes from the calculations of diluted earnings per share weighted average convertible OP Units of 2,252,575 , 2,224,100 , and 2,182,467 , which include vested Series Z Incentive Units, Series Z-1 Incentive Units, 2014 Long-Term Incentive Plan Units, and 2015 Long-Term Incentive Plan Units, for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively, because they were anti-dilutive. The related income allocated to these convertible OP Units aggregated $14.8 million , $14.1 million , and $7.8 million for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016, and 2015, respectively. Additionally, the table excludes all DownREIT limited partnership units for which the Operating Partnership has the ability and intention to redeem the units for cash and does not consider them to be common stock equivalents. Stock options of 154,793 , 252,334 , and 54,100 , for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 , respectively, were excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share because the assumed proceeds per share of such options plus the average unearned compensation were greater than the average market price of the common stock for the years ended and, therefore, were anti-dilutive. All shares of cumulative convertible Series H preferred interest have been excluded from diluted earnings per share for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 , as the effect was anti-dilutive. Essex Portfolio, L.P. Basic and diluted income per unit is calculated as follows for the years ended December 31 ($ in thousands, except unit and per unit amounts): 2017 2016 2015 Income Weighted- average Common Units Per Common Unit Amount Income Weighted- average Common Units Per Common Unit Amount Income Weighted- average Common Units Per Common Unit Amount Basic: Net income available to common unitholders $ 447,884 68,081,730 $ 6.58 $ 425,213 67,695,640 $ 6.28 $ 234,689 67,054,184 $ 3.50 Effect of Dilutive Securities Stock options — 69,100 — 116,276 — 189,968 Diluted: Net income available to common unitholders $ 447,884 68,150,830 $ 6.57 $ 425,213 67,811,916 $ 6.27 $ 234,689 67,244,152 $ 3.49 Stock options of 154,793 , 252,334 , and 54,100 , for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 , respectively, were excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per unit because the assumed proceeds per unit of these options plus the average unearned compensation were greater than the average market price of the common unit for the years ended and, therefore, were anti-dilutive. Additionally, the table excludes all DownREIT limited partnership units for which the Operating Partnership has the ability and intention to redeem the units for cash and does not consider them to be common stock equivalents. The cumulative convertible Series H preferred interest have been excluded from diluted earnings per unit for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 , as the effect was anti-dilutive.

Equity Based Compensation Plans

Equity Based Compensation Plans	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Share-based Compensation [Abstract]
Equity Based Compensation Plans	Equity Based Compensation Plans Stock Options and Restricted Stock In May 2013, stockholders approved the Company’s 2013 Stock Award and Incentive Compensation Plan (“2013 Plan”). The 2013 Plan became effective on June 1, 2013 and serves as the successor to the Company’s 2004 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2004 Plan”), and no additional equity awards can be granted under the 2004 Plan after the date the 2013 Plan became effective. The Company’s 2013 Plan provides incentives to attract and retain officers, directors and key employees. The 2013 Plan provides for the grants of options to purchase shares of common stock, grants of restricted stock and other award types. Under the 2013 Plan, the maximum aggregate number of shares that may be issued is 1,000,000 , plus any shares that have not been issued under the 2004 Plan, including shares subject to outstanding awards under the 2004 Plan that are not issued or delivered to a participant for any reason. The 2013 Plan is administered by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors, which is comprised of independent directors. The Compensation Committee is authorized to establish the exercise price; however, the exercise price cannot be less than 100% of the fair market value of the common stock on the grant date. The Company’s options have a life of five to ten years. Option grants for officers and employees fully vest between zero and five years after the grant date. Stock-based compensation expense for options and restricted stock under the fair value method totaled $9.5 million , $8.2 million , and $6.1 million for years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 respectively. For the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015 stock-based compensation expense included $3.5 million , $3.5 million , and $2.7 million related to an immediate vesting of options and restricted stock for bonuses awarded based on asset dispositions, which is recorded as a cost of real estate and land sold, respectively. Stock-based compensation for options and restricted stock related to recipients who are direct and incremental to projects under development were capitalized and totaled $1.5 million , $0.5 million , and $0.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively. The intrinsic value of the options exercised totaled $16.7 million , $11.9 million , and $19.4 million , for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 respectively. The intrinsic value of the options exercisable totaled $11.3 million and $20.8 million as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. Total unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested stock options totaled $6.5 million as of December 31, 2017 and the unrecognized compensation cost is expected to be recognized over a period of 2.5 years. The average fair value of stock options granted for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 was $22.41 , $21.65 and $22.78 , respectively. Certain stock options granted in 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 included a $100 cap or a $125 cap on the appreciation of the market price over the exercise price. The fair value of stock options was estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following weighted average assumptions used for grants: 2017 2016 2015 Stock price $ 240.56 $ 219.60 $ 227.75 Risk-free interest rates 2.30 % 2.08 % 1.83 % Expected lives 6 years 6 years 6 years Volatility 24.10 % 26.47 % 20.06 % Dividend yield 2.90 % 2.89 % 2.73 % A summary of the status of the Company’s stock option plans as of December 31, 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 and changes during the years ended on those dates is presented below: 2017 2016 2015 Shares Weighted- average exercise price Shares Weighted- average exercise price Shares Weighted- average exercise price Outstanding at beginning of year 557,648 $ 181.50 525,094 $ 154.98 664,785 $ 138.78 Granted 164,677 240.56 207,429 219.60 78,600 227.75 Exercised (176,489 ) 146.86 (138,054 ) 138.79 (203,556 ) 131.53 Forfeited and canceled (9,628 ) 160.40 (36,821 ) 178.18 (14,735 ) 136.11 Outstanding at end of year 536,208 211.41 557,648 181.50 525,094 154.98 Options exercisable at year end 223,796 191.09 290,340 160.90 342,048 152.42 The following table summarizes information about restricted stock outstanding as of December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 and changes during the years ended: 2017 2016 2015 Shares Weighted- average grant price Shares Weighted- average grant price Shares Weighted- average grant price Unvested at beginning of year 58,349 $ 149.11 54,676 $ 147.10 25,820 $ 168.22 Granted 62,706 177.28 49,183 150.13 56,177 155.21 Vested (29,675 ) 170.17 (38,427 ) 147.12 (22,939 ) 148.20 Forfeited and canceled (557 ) 119.37 (7,083 ) 141.76 (4,382 ) 122.06 Unvested at end of year 90,823 163.49 58,349 149.11 54,676 147.10 The unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested restricted stock totaled $7.0 million as of December 31, 2017 and is expected to be recognized over a period of 2.1 years. Long Term Incentive Plans – LTIP Units On December 9, 2014, the Operating Partnership issued 44,750 LTIP units under the 2015 Long-Term Incentive Plan Award agreements to executives of the Company. The 2015 Long-Term Incentive Plan Units (the “2015 LTIP Units”) are subject to forfeiture based on performance-based and service based conditions. An additional 24,000 LTIP units were granted subject only to performance-based criteria and were fully vested on the date granted. The 2015 LTIP Units, that are subject to vesting, will vest at 20% per year on each of the first five anniversaries of the initial grant date. The 2015 LTIP Units performance conditions measurement ended on December 9, 2015 and 95.75% of the units awarded were earned by the recipients. 2015 LTIP Units not earned based on the performance-based criteria were automatically forfeited by the recipients. The 2015 LTIP Units, once earned and vested, are convertible one -for-one into OP Units which, in turn, are convertible into common stock of the Company subject to a ten -year liquidity restriction. In December 2013, the Operating Partnership issued 50,500 LTIP units under the 2014 Long-Term Incentive Plan Award agreements to executives of the Company. The 2014 Long-Term Incentive Plan Units (the “2014 LTIP Units”) were subject to forfeiture based on performance-based conditions and are currently subject to service based vesting. The 2014 LTIP Units vest 25% per year on each of the first four anniversaries of the initial grant date. In December 2014, the Company achieved the performance criteria and all of the 2014 LTIP Units awarded were earned by the recipients, subject to satisfaction of service based vesting conditions. The 2014 LTIP Units are convertible one -for-one into OP Units which, in turn, are convertible into common stock of the Company subject to a ten year liquidity restriction. The estimated fair value of the 2015 LTIP Units and 2014 LTIP Units were determined on the grant date using Monte Carlo simulations under a risk-neutral premise and considered Essex’s stock price on the date of grant, the unpaid dividends on unvested units and the discount factor for 10 years of illiquidity. Prior to 2013, the Company issued Series Z Incentive Units and Series Z-1 Incentive Units (collectively referred to as “Z Units”) of limited partnership interest in the Operating Partnership. Vesting in the Z Units is based on performance criteria established in the plan. The criteria can be revised by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors if the Committee deems that the plan's criterion is unachievable for any given year. The sale of Z Units is contractually prohibited. Z Units are convertible into Operating Partnership units which are exchangeable for shares of the Company’s common stock that have marketability restrictions. The estimated fair value of Z Units were determined on the grant date and considered the Company's stock price on the date of grant, the dividends that are not paid on unvested units and a marketability discount for the 8 to 15 years of illiquidity. Compensation expense is calculated by multiplying estimated vesting increases for the period by the estimated fair value as of the grant date. During 2011 and 2010, the Operating Partnership issued 154,500 Series Z-1 Incentive Units (the “Z-1 Units”) of limited partner interest to executives of the Company. The Z-1 Units are convertible one-for-one into common units of the Operating Partnership (which, in turn, are convertible into common stock of the Company) upon the earlier to occur of 100 percent vesting of the units or the year 2026. The conversion ratchet (accounted for as vesting) of the Z-1 Units into common units, is to increase consistent with the Company’s annual FFO growth, but is not to be less than zero or greater than 14 percent . Z-1 Unit holders are entitled to receive distributions, on vested units, that are now equal to dividends distributed to common stockholders. Stock-based compensation expense for LTIP and Z Units under the fair value method totaled approximately $1.8 million , $2.7 million and $3.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively. Stock-based compensation related to LTIP Units attributable to recipients who are direct and incremental to these projects was capitalized to real estate under development and totaled approximately $0.5 million , $0.6 million , and $0.5 million , for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 , respectively. The intrinsic value of the vested and unvested LTIP Units totaled $57.1 million as of December 31, 2017 . Total unrecognized compensation cost related to the unvested LTIP Units under the LTIP Units plans totaled $1.6 million as of December 31, 2017 . On a weighted average basis, the unamortized cost for the 2014 and 2015 LTIP Units and the Z Units is expected to be recognized over the next 1.2 years to 7.5 years, depending on certain performance targets. The following table summarizes information about the LTIP Units outstanding as of December 31, 2017 : Long Term Incentive Plan - LTIP Units Total Vested Units Total Unvested Units Total Outstanding Units Weighted- average Grant-date Fair Value Weighted- average Remaining Contractual Life (years) Balance, December 31, 2014 181,919 151,067 332,986 $ 71.14 10.5 Granted — — — Vested 36,650 (36,650 ) — Converted (74,384 ) — (74,384 ) Cancelled — (8,260 ) (8,260 ) Balance, December 31, 2015 144,185 106,157 250,342 $ 75.41 9.5 Granted — — — Vested 36,842 (36,842 ) — Converted — — — Cancelled — (9,288 ) (9,288 ) Balance, December 31, 2016 181,027 60,027 241,054 $ 75.11 8.5 Granted — — — Vested 32,961 (32,961 ) — Converted (688 ) — (688 ) Cancelled — (3,854 ) (3,854 ) Balance, December 31, 2017 213,300 23,212 236,512 $ 75.03 7.5

Segment Information

Segment Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Information	Segment Information The Company's segment disclosures present the measure used by the chief operating decision makers for purposes of assessing each segment's performance. Essex's chief operating decision makers are comprised of several members of its executive management team who use NOI to assess the performance of the business for the Company's reportable operating segments. NOI represents total property revenue less direct property operating expenses. The executive management team evaluates the Company's operating performance geographically. The Company defines its reportable operating segments as the three geographical regions in which its communities are located: Southern California, Northern California and Seattle Metro. Excluded from segment revenues and net operating income are management and other fees from affiliates and interest and other income. Non-segment revenues and net operating income included in the following schedule also consist of revenue generated from commercial properties and properties that have been sold. Other non-segment assets include real estate under development, co-investments, real estate held for sale, net, cash and cash equivalents, marketable securities, notes and other receivables and prepaid expenses and other assets. The revenues and net operating income for each of the reportable operating segments are summarized as follows for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 ($ in thousands): Years Ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 Revenues: Southern California $ 596,217 $ 561,094 $ 507,536 Northern California 505,313 453,140 407,590 Seattle Metro 229,871 217,259 201,417 Other real estate assets 22,924 54,230 68,955 Total property revenues $ 1,354,325 $ 1,285,723 $ 1,185,498 Net operating income: Southern California $ 409,133 $ 382,312 $ 340,797 Northern California 363,238 325,394 291,168 Seattle Metro 156,404 148,279 136,579 Other real estate assets 20,008 40,811 53,446 Total net operating income 948,783 896,796 821,990 Management and other fees from affiliates 9,574 8,278 8,909 Depreciation and amortization (468,881 ) (441,682 ) (453,423 ) General and administrative (41,385 ) (40,751 ) (40,090 ) Merger and integration expenses — — (3,798 ) Acquisition and investment related costs (1,569 ) (1,841 ) (2,414 ) Interest expense (222,894 ) (219,654 ) (204,827 ) Total return swap income 10,098 11,716 5,655 Interest and other income 24,604 27,305 19,143 Equity income from co-investments 86,445 48,698 21,861 Loss on early retirement of debt (1,796 ) (606 ) (6,114 ) Gain on sale of real estate and land 26,423 154,561 47,333 Deferred tax expense on gain on sale of real estate and land — (4,410 ) — Gain on remeasurement of co-investment 88,641 — 34,014 Net income $ 458,043 $ 438,410 $ 248,239 Total assets for each of the reportable operating segments are summarized as follows as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 ($ in thousands): As of December 31, Assets: 2017 2016 Southern California $ 4,788,225 $ 4,924,792 Northern California 4,215,449 3,791,549 Seattle Metro 1,520,372 1,570,340 Other real estate assets 55,488 78,079 Net reportable operating segments - real estate assets 10,579,534 10,364,760 Real estate under development 355,735 190,505 Co-investments 1,155,984 1,161,275 Real estate held for sale, net — 101,957 Cash and cash equivalents, including restricted cash 61,126 170,302 Marketable securities 190,004 139,189 Notes and other receivables 100,926 40,970 Prepaid expenses and other assets 52,397 48,450 Total assets $ 12,495,706 $ 12,217,408

401(k) Plan

401(k) Plan	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Defined Contribution Plan [Abstract]
401(k) Plan	401(k) Plan The Company has a 401(k) benefit plan (the “Plan”) for all eligible employees. Employee contributions are limited by the maximum allowed under Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code. The Company matches 50% of the employee contributions up to a specified maximum. Company contributions to the Plan were approximately $1.8 million , $1.8 million , and $1.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 , respectively.

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	Commitments and Contingencies As of December 31, 2017 , the Company had seven ground leases for certain apartment communities and buildings that expire between 2027 and 2082. Ground lease payments are typically the greater of a stated minimum or a percentage of gross rents generated by these apartment communities, some of which may be subject to future adjustments, which are not contemplated in the disclosed minimum lease commitments. The total minimum lease commitments, under ground-leases and operating leases, for each of the years ending December 31 is summarized as follows ($ in thousands): Total Minimum Lease Commitments 2018 $ 4,723 2019 4,782 2020 4,842 2021 4,905 2022 4,970 Thereafter 112,361 $ 136,583 To the extent that an environmental matter arises or is identified in the future that has other than a remote risk of having a material impact on the financial statements, the Company will disclose the estimated range of possible outcomes associated with it and, if an outcome is probable, accrue an appropriate liability for that matter. The Company will consider whether any such matter results in an impairment of value on the affected property and, if so, the impairment will be recognized. The Company has no way of determining the magnitude of any potential liability to which it may be subject arising out of unknown environmental conditions with respect to the communities currently or formerly owned by the Company. No assurance can be given that: existing environmental assessments conducted with respect to any of these communities have revealed all environmental conditions or potential liabilities associated with such conditions; any prior owner or operator of a property did not create any material environmental condition not known to the Company; or a material unknown environmental condition does not otherwise exist as to any one or more of the communities. The Company has limited insurance coverage for some of the types of environmental conditions and associated liabilities described above. The Company has entered into transactions that may require the Company to pay the tax liabilities of the partners in the Operating Partnership or in the DownREIT entities. These transactions are within the Company’s control. Although the Company plans to hold the contributed assets or defer recognition of gain on their sale pursuant to like-kind exchange rules under Section 1031 of the Internal Revenue Code, the Company can provide no assurance that it will be able to do so and if such tax liabilities were incurred they may have a material impact on the Company’s financial position. There continue to be lawsuits against owners and managers of certain of the Company's apartment communities alleging personal injury and property damage caused by the presence of mold in the residential units and common areas of those communities. Some of these lawsuits have resulted in substantial monetary judgments or settlements. The Company has been sued for mold related matters and has settled some, but not all, of such suits. Insurance carriers have reacted to the increase in mold related liability awards by excluding mold related claims from standard general liability policies and pricing mold endorsements at prohibitively high rates. The Company has, however, purchased pollution liability insurance which includes coverage for some mold claims. The Company has also adopted policies intended to promptly address and resolve reports of mold and to minimize any impact mold might have on tenants of its properties. The Company believes its mold policies and proactive response to address reported mold exposures reduces its risk of loss from mold claims. While no assurances can be given that the Company has identified and responded to all mold occurrences, the Company promptly addresses and responds to all known mold reports. Liabilities resulting from such mold related matters are not expected to have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. As of December 31, 2017 , potential liabilities for mold and other environmental liabilities are not quantifiable and an estimate of possible loss cannot be made. The Company carries comprehensive liability, fire, extended coverage and rental loss insurance for each of the communities. There are, however, certain types of extraordinary losses, such as, for example, losses from terrorism or earthquakes, for which the Company has limited insurance coverage. Substantially all of the communities are located in areas that are subject to earthquake activity. The Company has established a wholly-owned insurance subsidiary, Pacific Western Insurance LLC (“PWI”). Through PWI, the Company is self-insured for earthquake related losses. Additionally, since January 2008, PWI has provided property and casualty insurance coverage for the first $5.0 million of the Company’s property level insurance claims per incident. As of December 31, 2017 , PWI has cash and marketable securities of approximately $81.8 million . These assets are consolidated in the Company’s financial statements. Beginning in 2013, the Company has obtained limited third party seismic insurance on selected assets in the Company's co-investments. The Company is subject to various other legal and/or regulatory proceedings arising in the course of its business operations. We believe that, with respect to such matters that we are currently a party to, the ultimate disposition of any such matter will not result in a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

Subsequent Events

Subsequent Events	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Events	Subsequent Events In January 2018, The Village at Toluca Lake, a BEX III property, repaid a $29.5 million related party bridge loan from the Operating Partnership.

Quarterly Results of Operations

Quarterly Results of Operations (Unaudited)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Quarterly Financial Data [Abstract]
Quarterly Results of Operations (Unaudited)	Quarterly Results of Operations (Unaudited) Essex Property Trust, Inc. The following is a summary of quarterly results of operations for 2017 and 2016 ( $ in thousands, except per share and dividend amounts ): Quarter ended December 31 Quarter ended September 30 Quarter ended June 30 Quarter ended March 31 2017: Total property revenues $ 342,417 $ 341,974 $ 336,766 $ 333,168 Net income $ 109,662 $ 85,035 $ 75,795 $ 187,551 Net income available to common stockholders $ 103,613 $ 79,723 $ 70,759 $ 178,964 Per share data: Net income: Basic (1) $ 1.57 $ 1.21 $ 1.08 $ 2.73 Diluted (1) $ 1.57 $ 1.21 $ 1.08 $ 2.72 Market price: High $ 264.07 $ 270.04 $ 268.97 $ 238.57 Low $ 237.33 $ 249.46 $ 229.14 $ 218.41 Close $ 241.37 $ 254.03 $ 257.27 $ 231.53 Dividends declared $ 1.75 $ 1.75 $ 1.75 $ 1.75 2016: Total property revenues $ 326,905 $ 327,078 $ 319,562 $ 312,178 Net income $ 204,517 $ 70,162 $ 76,824 $ 86,907 Net income available to common stockholders $ 195,569 $ 65,561 $ 72,013 $ 77,981 Per share data: Net income: Basic (1) $ 2.98 $ 1.00 $ 1.10 $ 1.19 Diluted (1) $ 2.98 $ 1.00 $ 1.10 $ 1.19 Market price: High $ 234.07 $ 236.56 $ 237.50 $ 240.55 Low $ 200.01 $ 217.16 $ 207.20 $ 191.25 Close $ 232.50 $ 222.70 $ 228.09 $ 233.86 Dividends declared $ 1.60 $ 1.60 $ 1.60 $ 1.60 (1) Quarterly earnings per common unit amounts may not total to the annual amounts due to rounding and the changes in the number of weighted common units outstanding and included in the calculation of basic and diluted shares. Essex Portfolio, L.P. The following is a summary of quarterly results of operations for 2017 and 2016 ( $ in thousands, except per unit and distribution amounts ): Quarter ended December 31 Quarter ended September 30 Quarter ended June 30 Quarter ended March 31 2017: Total property revenues $ 342,417 $ 341,974 $ 336,766 $ 333,168 Net income $ 109,662 $ 85,035 $ 75,795 $ 187,551 Net income available to common unitholders $ 107,149 $ 82,444 $ 73,181 $ 185,110 Per unit data: Net income: Basic (1) $ 1.57 $ 1.21 $ 1.08 $ 2.73 Diluted (1) $ 1.57 $ 1.21 $ 1.08 $ 2.72 Distributions declared $ 1.75 $ 1.75 $ 1.75 $ 1.75 2016: Total property revenues $ 326,905 $ 327,078 $ 319,562 $ 312,178 Net income $ 204,517 $ 70,162 $ 76,824 $ 86,907 Net income available to common unitholders $ 202,201 $ 67,784 $ 74,463 $ 80,765 Per unit data: Net income: Basic (1) $ 2.98 $ 1.00 $ 1.10 $ 1.19 Diluted (1) $ 2.98 $ 1.00 $ 1.10 $ 1.19 Distributions declared $ 1.60 $ 1.60 $ 1.60 $ 1.60 (1) Quarterly earnings per common unit amounts may not total to the annual amounts due to rounding and the changes in the number of weighted common units outstanding and included in the calculation of basic and diluted shares.

SCHEDULE III REAL ESTATE AND AC

SCHEDULE III REAL ESTATE AND ACCUMULATED DEPRECIATION	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation Disclosure [Abstract]
SCHEDULE III - REAL ESTATE AND ACCUMULATED DEPRECIATION	Costs Initial cost capitalized Gross amount carried at close of period Apartment Buildings and subsequent to Land and Buildings and Accumulated Date of Date Lives Property Homes Location Encumbrance Land improvements acquisition improvements improvements Total (1) depreciation construction acquired (years) Encumbered communities Avondale at Warner Center 446 Woodland Hills, CA $ 42,844 $ 10,536 $ 24,522 $ 21,096 $ 10,601 $ 45,553 $ 56,154 $ (30,410 ) 1970 Jan-99 3-30 Bel Air 462 San Ramon, CA 50,386 12,105 18,252 35,236 12,682 52,911 65,593 (33,713 ) 1988 Jan-95 3-30 Belcarra 296 Bellevue, WA 50,337 21,725 92,091 1,266 21,725 93,357 115,082 (12,712 ) 2009 Apr-14 5-30 BellCentre 248 Bellevue, WA 38,024 16,197 67,207 3,529 16,197 70,736 86,933 (10,053 ) 2001 Apr-14 5-30 Belmont Station 275 Los Angeles, CA 29,654 8,100 66,666 6,176 8,267 72,675 80,942 (26,071 ) 2009 Mar-09 3-30 Brookside Oaks 170 Sunnyvale, CA 18,152 7,301 16,310 25,695 10,328 38,978 49,306 (20,377 ) 1973 Jun-00 3-30 Carmel Creek 348 San Diego, CA 61,009 26,842 107,368 5,271 26,842 112,639 139,481 (16,153 ) 2000 Apr-14 5-30 City View 572 Hayward, CA 64,094 9,883 37,670 26,670 10,350 63,873 74,223 (44,300 ) 1975 Mar-98 3-30 Courtyard off Main 110 Bellevue, WA 14,846 7,465 21,405 3,757 7,465 25,162 32,627 (6,700 ) 2000 Oct-10 3-30 Domaine 92 Seattle, WA 14,029 9,059 27,177 920 9,059 28,097 37,156 (5,183 ) 2009 Sep-12 3-30 Elevation 158 Redmond, WA 10,406 4,758 14,285 6,476 4,757 20,762 25,519 (7,508 ) 1986 Jun-10 3-30 Ellington 220 Bellevue, WA 20,684 15,066 45,249 3,191 15,066 48,440 63,506 (5,793 ) 1994 Jul-14 3-30 Fairhaven Apartments 164 Santa Ana, CA 18,533 2,626 10,485 7,741 2,957 17,895 20,852 (9,600 ) 1970 Nov-01 3-30 Form 15 242 San Diego, CA 46,189 24,510 72,221 4,734 25,540 75,925 101,465 (4,850 ) 2014 Mar-16 3-30 Foster's Landing 490 Foster City, CA 93,585 61,714 144,000 8,245 61,714 152,245 213,959 (22,269 ) 1987 Apr-14 5-30 Fountains at River Oaks 226 San Jose, CA 31,056 26,046 60,773 3,652 26,046 64,425 90,471 (9,116 ) 1990 Apr-14 3-30 Fountain Park 705 Playa Vista, CA 82,503 25,073 94,980 31,832 25,203 126,682 151,885 (65,049 ) 2002 Feb-04 3-30 Hidden Valley 324 Simi Valley, CA 29,327 14,174 34,065 4,607 9,674 43,172 52,846 (19,168 ) 2004 Dec-04 3-30 Highlands at Wynhaven 333 Issaquah, WA 30,240 16,271 48,932 12,255 16,271 61,187 77,458 (21,289 ) 2000 Aug-08 3-30 Highridge 255 Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 69,238 5,419 18,347 30,726 6,073 48,419 54,492 (33,537 ) 1972 May-97 3-30 Hillcrest Park 608 Newbury Park, CA 62,780 15,318 40,601 19,704 15,755 59,868 75,623 (37,377 ) 1973 Mar-98 3-30 Huntington Breakers 342 Huntington Beach, CA 35,192 9,306 22,720 20,267 9,315 42,978 52,293 (25,931 ) 1984 Oct-97 3-30 Inglenook Court 224 Bothell, WA 8,216 3,467 7,881 7,588 3,474 15,462 18,936 (12,067 ) 1985 Oct-94 3-30 1000 Kiely 121 Santa Clara, CA 34,868 9,359 21,845 7,652 9,359 29,497 38,856 (8,954 ) 1971 Mar-11 3-30 Magnolia Square/Magnolia (2) 188 Sunnyvale, CA 52,205 8,190 24,736 16,649 8,191 41,384 49,575 (18,214 ) 1963 Sep-07 3-30 Mill Creek at Windermere 400 San Ramon, CA 45,419 29,551 69,032 4,700 29,551 73,732 103,283 (26,212 ) 2005 Sep-07 3-30 Mirabella 188 Marina Del Rey, CA 41,509 6,180 26,673 14,952 6,270 41,535 47,805 (22,805 ) 2000 May-00 3-30 Montanosa 472 San Diego, CA 61,222 26,697 106,787 4,611 26,697 111,398 138,095 (15,660 ) 1990 Apr-14 5-30 Montclaire 390 Sunnyvale, CA 43,261 4,842 19,776 24,901 4,997 44,522 49,519 (37,862 ) 1973 Dec-88 3-30 Montebello 248 Kirkland, WA 25,569 13,857 41,575 4,524 13,858 46,098 59,956 (9,729 ) 1996 Jul-12 3-30 Costs Initial cost capitalized Gross amount carried at close of period Apartment Buildings and subsequent to Land and Buildings and Accumulated Date of Date Lives Property Homes Location Encumbrance Land improvements acquisition improvements improvements Total (1) depreciation construction acquired (years) Montejo Apartments 124 Garden Grove, CA 13,196 1,925 7,685 3,871 2,194 11,287 13,481 (5,901 ) 1974 Nov-01 3-30 Park Highland 250 Bellevue, WA 25,910 9,391 38,224 11,622 9,391 49,846 59,237 (8,048 ) 1993 Apr-14 5-30 Park Hill at Issaquah 245 Issaquah, WA 26,607 7,284 21,937 7,460 7,284 29,397 36,681 (13,241 ) 1999 Feb-99 3-30 Pinnacle at Fullerton 192 Fullerton, CA 26,094 11,019 45,932 2,707 11,019 48,639 59,658 (6,843 ) 2004 Apr-14 5-30 Pinnacle on Lake Washington 180 Renton, WA 17,794 7,760 31,041 1,880 7,760 32,921 40,681 (4,530 ) 2001 Apr-14 5-30 Pinnacle at MacArthur Place 253 Santa Ana, CA 37,726 15,810 66,401 4,039 15,810 70,440 86,250 (9,747 ) 2002 Apr-14 5-30 Pinnacle at Otay Ranch I & II 364 Chula Vista, CA 38,649 17,023 68,093 3,245 17,023 71,338 88,361 (10,033 ) 2001 Apr-14 5-30 Pinnacle at Talega 362 San Clemente, CA 43,166 19,292 77,168 2,228 19,292 79,396 98,688 (11,091 ) 2002 Apr-14 5-30 Sage at Cupertino 230 San Jose, CA 51,938 35,719 53,449 1,495 35,719 54,944 90,663 (1,457 ) 1971 Mar-17 3-30 Stevenson Place 200 Fremont, CA 20,247 996 5,582 11,717 1,001 17,294 18,295 (12,155 ) 1975 Apr-00 3-30 Summerhill Park 100 Sunnyvale, CA 12,538 2,654 4,918 10,949 2,656 15,865 18,521 (8,777 ) 1988 Sep-88 3-30 The Audrey at Belltown 137 Seattle, WA 20,521 9,228 36,911 778 9,228 37,689 46,917 (5,163 ) 1992 Apr-14 5-30 The Barkley (3) 161 Anaheim, CA 15,358 — 8,520 6,515 2,353 12,682 15,035 (7,483 ) 1984 Apr-00 3-30 The Bernard 63 Seattle, WA 8,531 3,699 11,345 584 3,689 11,939 15,628 (2,587 ) 2008 Sep-11 3-30 The Dylan 184 West Hollywood, CA 59,468 19,984 82,286 608 19,990 82,888 102,878 (9,097 ) 2015 Mar-15 3-30 The Huntington 276 Huntington Beach, CA 28,799 10,374 41,495 4,741 10,374 46,236 56,610 (9,671 ) 1975 Jun-12 3-30 The Huxley 187 West Hollywood, CA 54,155 19,362 75,641 1,033 19,371 76,665 96,036 (8,608 ) 2014 Mar-15 3-30 The Landing at Jack London Square 282 Oakland, CA 51,246 33,554 78,292 5,314 33,554 83,606 117,160 (12,370 ) 2001 Apr-14 5-30 The Palisades 192 Bellevue, WA 19,338 1,560 6,242 12,709 1,565 18,946 20,511 (16,021 ) 1977 May-90 3-30 The Palms at Laguna Niguel 460 Laguna Niguel, CA 54,450 23,584 94,334 6,569 23,584 100,903 124,487 (14,019 ) 1988 Apr-14 5-30 The Waterford 238 San Jose, CA 29,760 11,808 24,500 14,581 15,165 35,724 50,889 (20,491 ) 2000 Jun-00 3-30 Valley Park 160 Fountain Valley, CA 21,400 3,361 13,420 5,744 3,761 18,764 22,525 (9,907 ) 1969 Nov-01 3-30 Villa Angelina 256 Placentia, CA 27,869 4,498 17,962 7,044 4,962 24,542 29,504 (13,340 ) 1970 Nov-01 3-30 Villa Granada 270 Santa Clara, CA 56,474 38,299 89,365 1,449 38,299 90,814 129,113 (12,672 ) 2010 Apr-14 5-30 Wandering Creek 156 Kent, WA 5,239 1,285 4,980 4,203 1,296 9,172 10,468 (7,166 ) 1986 Nov-95 3-30 Wilshire Promenade 149 Fullerton, CA 16,567 3,118 7,385 8,781 3,797 15,487 19,284 (9,891 ) 1992 Jan-97 3-30 14,988 $ 2,008,417 $ 764,224 $ 2,416,739 $ 510,489 $ 774,421 $ 2,917,031 $ 3,691,452 $ (868,971 ) Unencumbered Communities 8th & Hope 290 Los Angeles, CA $ — $ 29,279 $ 169,350 $ 2,207 $ 29,279 $ 171,557 $ 200,836 $ (18,558 ) 2014 Feb-15 3-30 Alessio 624 Los Angeles, CA — 32,136 128,543 7,794 32,136 136,337 168,473 (19,336 ) 2001 Apr-14 5-30 Allegro 97 Valley Village, CA — 5,869 23,977 1,968 5,869 25,945 31,814 (8,463 ) 2010 Oct-10 3-30 Costs Initial cost capitalized Gross amount carried at close of period Apartment Buildings and subsequent to Land and Buildings and Accumulated Date of Date Lives Property Homes Location Encumbrance Land improvements acquisition improvements improvements Total (1) depreciation construction acquired (years) Allure at Scripps Ranch 194 San Diego, CA — 11,923 47,690 1,195 11,923 48,885 60,808 (6,765 ) 2002 Apr-14 5-30 Alpine Village 301 Alpine, CA — 4,967 19,728 8,111 4,982 27,824 32,806 (14,106 ) 1971 Dec-02 3-30 Anavia 250 Anaheim, CA — 15,925 63,712 7,649 15,925 71,361 87,286 (17,162 ) 2009 Dec-10 3-30 Annaliese 56 Seattle, WA — 4,727 14,229 525 4,726 14,755 19,481 (2,501 ) 2009 Jan-13 3-30 Apex 366 Milpitas, CA — 44,240 103,251 2,512 44,240 105,763 150,003 (11,748 ) 2014 Aug-14 3-30 Aqua Marina Del Rey 500 Marina Del Rey, CA — 58,442 175,326 11,921 58,442 187,247 245,689 (27,261 ) 2001 Apr-14 5-30 Ascent 90 Kirkland, WA — 3,924 11,862 1,806 3,924 13,668 17,592 (2,937 ) 1988 Oct-12 3-30 Ashton Sherman Village 264 Los Angeles, CA — 23,550 93,811 373 23,550 94,184 117,734 (3,442 ) 2014 Dec-16 3-30 Avant 440 Los Angeles, CA — 32,379 137,940 1,349 32,379 139,289 171,668 (11,397 ) 2014 Jun-15 3-30 Avenue 64 224 Emeryville, CA — 27,235 64,403 14,013 27,235 78,416 105,651 (10,003 ) 2007 Apr-14 5-30 Aviara (4) 166 Mercer Island, WA — — 49,813 680 — 50,493 50,493 (7,820 ) 2013 Apr-14 5-30 Axis 2300 115 Irvine, CA — 5,405 33,585 1,559 5,405 35,144 40,549 (11,130 ) 2010 Aug-10 3-30 Bella Villagio 231 San Jose, CA — 17,247 40,343 3,060 17,247 43,403 60,650 (11,390 ) 2004 Sep-10 3-30 Bellerive 63 Los Angeles, CA — 5,401 21,803 1,104 5,401 22,907 28,308 (6,181 ) 2011 Aug-11 3-30 Belmont Terrace 71 Belmont, CA — 4,446 10,290 6,203 4,473 16,466 20,939 (7,161 ) 1974 Oct-06 3-30 Bennett Lofts 165 San Francisco, CA — 21,771 50,800 28,948 28,371 73,148 101,519 (13,218 ) 2004 Dec-12 3-30 Bernardo Crest 216 San Diego, CA — 10,802 43,209 2,738 10,802 45,947 56,749 (6,542 ) 1988 Apr-14 5-30 Bonita Cedars 120 Bonita, CA — 2,496 9,913 3,985 2,503 13,891 16,394 (6,742 ) 1983 Dec-02 3-30 Boulevard 172 Fremont, CA — 3,520 8,182 12,963 3,580 21,085 24,665 (16,059 ) 1978 Jan-96 3-30 Bridle Trails 108 Kirkland, WA — 1,500 5,930 5,812 1,531 11,711 13,242 (8,081 ) 1986 Oct-97 3-30 Brighton Ridge 264 Renton, WA — 2,623 10,800 4,966 2,656 15,733 18,389 (11,110 ) 1986 Dec-96 3-30 Bristol Commons 188 Sunnyvale, CA — 5,278 11,853 8,861 5,293 20,699 25,992 (12,709 ) 1989 Jan-95 3-30 416 on Broadway 115 Glendale, CA — 8,557 34,235 2,296 8,557 36,531 45,088 (9,509 ) 2009 Dec-10 3-30 Bunker Hill 456 Los Angeles, CA — 11,498 27,871 75,593 11,639 103,323 114,962 (43,100 ) 1968 Mar-98 3-30 Camarillo Oaks 564 Camarillo, CA — 10,953 25,254 6,100 11,075 31,232 42,307 (21,946 ) 1985 Jul-96 3-30 Cambridge Park 320 San Diego, CA — 18,185 72,739 2,492 18,185 75,231 93,416 (10,691 ) 1998 Apr-14 5-30 Camino Ruiz Square 159 Camarillo, CA — 6,871 26,119 1,886 6,931 27,945 34,876 (10,569 ) 1990 Dec-06 3-30 Canyon Oaks 250 San Ramon, CA — 19,088 44,473 3,404 19,088 47,877 66,965 (17,672 ) 2005 May-07 3-30 Canyon Pointe 250 Bothell, WA — 4,692 18,288 7,017 4,693 25,304 29,997 (13,092 ) 1990 Oct-03 3-30 Capri at Sunny Hills 102 Fullerton, CA — 3,337 13,320 9,040 4,048 21,649 25,697 (12,460 ) 1961 Sep-01 3-30 Carmel Landing 356 San Diego, CA — 16,725 66,901 6,128 16,725 73,029 89,754 (10,364 ) 1989 Apr-14 5-30 Carmel Summit 246 San Diego, CA — 14,968 59,871 2,886 14,968 62,757 77,725 (8,747 ) 1989 Apr-14 5-30 Costs Initial cost capitalized Gross amount carried at close of period Apartment Buildings and subsequent to Land and Buildings and Accumulated Date of Date Lives Property Homes Location Encumbrance Land improvements acquisition improvements improvements Total (1) depreciation construction acquired (years) Castle Creek 216 Newcastle, WA — 4,149 16,028 3,760 4,833 19,104 23,937 (13,088 ) 1998 Dec-98 3-30 Catalina Gardens 128 Los Angeles, CA — 6,714 26,856 1,043 6,714 27,899 34,613 (3,890 ) 1987 Apr-14 5-30 CBC Apartments & The Sweeps 239 Goleta, CA — 11,841 45,320 6,162 11,906 51,417 63,323 (22,887 ) 1962 Jan-06 3-30 Cedar Terrace 180 Bellevue, WA — 5,543 16,442 5,923 5,652 22,256 27,908 (10,561 ) 1984 Jan-05 3-30 CentrePointe 224 San Diego, CA — 3,405 7,743 21,252 3,442 28,958 32,400 (16,021 ) 1974 Jun-97 3-30 Chestnut Street Apartments 96 Santa Cruz, CA — 6,582 15,689 1,750 6,582 17,439 24,021 (5,821 ) 2002 Jul-08 3-30 Collins on Pine 76 Seattle, WA — 7,276 22,226 262 7,276 22,488 29,764 (2,737 ) 2013 May-14 3-30 Corbella at Juanita Bay 169 Kirkland, WA — 5,801 17,415 2,603 5,801 20,018 25,819 (5,368 ) 1978 Nov-10 3-30 Cortesia 308 Rancho Santa Margarita, CA — 13,912 55,649 1,958 13,912 57,607 71,519 (8,058 ) 1999 Apr-14 5-30 Country Villas 180 Oceanside, CA — 4,174 16,583 4,772 4,187 21,342 25,529 (11,005 ) 1976 Dec-02 3-30 Crow Canyon 400 San Ramon, CA — 37,579 87,685 7,616 37,579 95,301 132,880 (13,111 ) 1992 Apr-14 5-30 Deer Valley 171 San Rafael, CA — 21,478 50,116 2,113 21,478 52,229 73,707 (7,425 ) 1996 Apr-14 5-30 Delano 126 Redmond, WA — 7,470 22,511 1,167 7,470 23,678 31,148 (4,984 ) 2005 Dec-11 3-30 Devonshire 276 Hemet, CA — 3,470 13,786 3,935 3,482 17,709 21,191 (9,455 ) 1988 Dec-02 3-30 Domain 379 San Diego, CA — 23,848 95,394 1,298 23,848 96,692 120,540 (13,510 ) 2013 Nov-13 3-30 Emerald Pointe 160 Diamond Bar, CA — 8,458 33,832 1,468 8,458 35,300 43,758 (5,018 ) 1989 Apr-14 5-30 Emerald Ridge 180 Bellevue, WA — 3,449 7,801 5,199 3,449 13,000 16,449 (9,551 ) 1987 Nov-94 3-30 Emerson Valley Village 144 Los Angeles, CA — 13,378 53,240 284 13,378 53,524 66,902 (1,953 ) 2012 Dec-16 3-30 Enso 183 San Jose, CA — 21,397 71,135 1,153 21,397 72,288 93,685 (5,238 ) 2014 Dec-15 3-30 Esplanade 278 San Jose, CA — 18,170 40,086 11,945 18,429 51,772 70,201 (24,281 ) 2002 Apr-04 3-30 Essex Skyline 349 Santa Ana, CA — 21,537 146,099 6,340 21,537 152,439 173,976 (29,843 ) 2008 Apr-10 3-30 Evergreen Heights 200 Kirkland, WA — 3,566 13,395 5,345 3,649 18,657 22,306 (12,816 ) 1990 Jun-97 3-30 Fairway Apartments at Big Canyon (5) 74 Newport Beach, CA — — 7,850 7,583 — 15,433 15,433 (9,692 ) 1972 Jun-99 3-28 Fairwood Pond 194 Renton, WA — 5,296 15,564 3,122 5,297 18,685 23,982 (8,928 ) 1997 Oct-04 3-30 Foothill Commons 394 Bellevue, WA — 2,435 9,821 39,142 2,440 48,958 51,398 (38,723 ) 1978 Mar-90 3-30 Foothill Gardens/Twin Creeks 176 San Ramon, CA — 5,875 13,992 10,086 5,964 23,989 29,953 (15,203 ) 1985 Feb-97 3-30 Forest View 192 Renton, WA — 3,731 14,530 2,362 3,731 16,892 20,623 (8,351 ) 1998 Oct-03 3-30 Fountain Court 320 Seattle, WA — 6,702 27,306 11,409 6,585 38,832 45,417 (23,649 ) 2000 Mar-00 3-30 Fourth & U 171 Berkeley, CA — 8,879 52,351 2,775 8,879 55,126 64,005 (15,677 ) 2010 Apr-10 3-30 Fox Plaza 444 San Francisco, CA — 39,731 92,706 20,638 39,731 113,344 153,075 (21,219 ) 1968 Feb-13 3-30 Hampton Place/Hampton Court 215 Glendale, CA — 6,695 16,753 24,885 6,733 41,600 48,333 (18,798 ) 1970 Jun-99 3-30 Costs Initial cost capitalized Gross amount carried at close of period Apartment Buildings and subsequent to Land and Buildings and Accumulated Date of Date Lives Property Homes Location Encumbrance Land improvements acquisition improvements improvements Total (1) depreciation construction acquired (years) Hillsdale Garden 697 San Mateo, CA — 22,000 94,681 22,145 22,000 116,826 138,826 (49,216 ) 1948 Sep-06 3-30 Hope Ranch 108 Santa Barbara, CA — 4,078 16,877 2,825 4,208 19,572 23,780 (7,105 ) 1965 Mar-07 3-30 Joule 295 Seattle, WA — 14,558 69,417 4,295 14,558 73,712 88,270 (21,397 ) 2010 Mar-10 3-30 Kings Road 196 Los Angeles, CA — 4,023 9,527 14,593 4,031 24,112 28,143 (14,090 ) 1979 Jun-97 3-30 Lafayette Highlands 150 Lafayette, CA — 17,774 41,473 2,065 17,774 43,538 61,312 (6,023 ) 1973 Apr-14 5-30 Lakeshore Landing 308 San Mateo, CA — 38,155 89,028 5,920 38,155 94,948 133,103 (14,103 ) 1988 Apr-14 5-30 Laurels at Mill Creek 164 Mill Creek, WA — 1,559 6,430 6,231 1,595 12,625 14,220 (9,082 ) 1981 Dec-96 3-30 Lawrence Station 336 Sunnyvale, CA — 45,532 106,735 1,100 45,532 107,835 153,367 (18,224 ) 2012 Apr-14 5-30 Le Parc 140 Santa Clara, CA — 3,090 7,421 11,787 3,092 19,206 22,298 (14,464 ) 1975 Feb-94 3-30 Marbrisa 202 Long Beach, CA — 4,700 18,605 8,640 4,760 27,185 31,945 (13,889 ) 1987 Sep-02 3-30 Marina City Club (6) 101 Marina Del Rey, CA — — 28,167 27,613 — 55,780 55,780 (23,105 ) 1971 Jan-04 3-30 Marina Cove (7) 292 Santa Clara, CA — 5,320 16,431 14,699 5,324 31,126 36,450 (22,342 ) 1974 Jun-94 3-30 Mariner's Place 105 Oxnard, CA — 1,555 6,103 2,314 1,562 8,410 9,972 (5,316 ) 1987 May-00 3-30 MB 360 360 San Francisco, CA — 21,421 114,376 122,654 42,001 216,450 258,451 (21,619 ) 2014 Apr-14 3-30 Mesa Village 133 Clairemont, CA — 1,888 7,498 1,730 1,894 9,222 11,116 (4,691 ) 1963 Dec-02 3-30 Mio 103 San Jose, CA — 11,012 39,982 367 11,012 40,349 51,361 (2,786 ) 2015 Jan-16 3-30 Mira Monte 354 Mira Mesa, CA — 7,165 28,459 10,588 7,186 39,026 46,212 (22,220 ) 1982 Dec-02 3-30 Miracle Mile/Marbella 236 Los Angeles, CA — 7,791 23,075 14,330 7,886 37,310 45,196 (24,621 ) 1988 Aug-97 3-30 Mission Hills 282 Oceanside, CA — 10,099 38,778 6,780 10,167 45,490 55,657 (20,326 ) 1984 Jul-05 3-30 Mission Peaks 453 Fremont, CA — 46,499 108,498 3,457 46,499 111,955 158,454 (15,669 ) 1995 Apr-14 5-30 Mission Peaks II 336 Fremont, CA — 31,429 73,334 4,469 31,429 77,803 109,232 (11,188 ) 1989 Apr-14 5-30 Monterey Villas 122 Oxnard, CA — 2,349 5,579 6,410 2,424 11,914 14,338 (7,386 ) 1974 Jul-97 3-30 Muse 152 North Hollywood, CA — 7,822 33,436 2,724 7,823 36,159 43,982 (11,275 ) 2011 Feb-11 3-30 Museum Park 117 San Jose, CA — 13,864 32,348 1,236 13,864 33,584 47,448 (4,777 ) 2002 Apr-14 5-30 Palm Valley 1,098 San Jose, CA — 133,802 312,205 2,035 133,802 314,240 448,042 (10,741 ) 2008 Jan-17 3-30 Paragon Apartments 301 Fremont, CA — 32,230 77,320 1,367 32,230 78,687 110,917 (9,136 ) 2013 Jul-14 3-30 Park Catalina 90 Los Angeles, CA — 4,710 18,839 3,068 4,710 21,907 26,617 (4,823 ) 2002 Jun-12 3-30 Park Viridian 320 Anaheim, CA — 15,894 63,574 3,023 15,894 66,597 82,491 (9,304 ) 2008 Apr-14 5-30 Park West 126 San Francisco, CA — 9,424 21,988 11,930 9,424 33,918 43,342 (7,730 ) 1958 Sep-12 3-30 Parkwood at Mill Creek 240 Mill Creek, WA — 10,680 42,722 2,441 10,680 45,163 55,843 (6,492 ) 1989 Apr-14 5-30 Pathways at Bixby Village 296 Long Beach, CA — 4,083 16,757 20,235 6,239 34,836 41,075 (29,186 ) 1975 Feb-91 3-30 Piedmont 396 Bellevue, WA — 19,848 59,606 11,186 19,848 70,792 90,640 (9,660 ) 1969 May-14 3-30 Costs Initial cost capitalized Gross amount carried at close of period Apartment Buildings and subsequent to Land and Buildings and Accumulated Date of Date Lives Property Homes Location Encumbrance Land improvements acquisition improvements improvements Total (1) depreciation construction acquired (years) Pinehurst (8) 28 Ventura, CA — — 1,711 548 — 2,259 2,259 (1,249 ) 1973 Dec-04 3-24 Pinnacle Sonata 268 Bothell, WA — 14,647 58,586 2,602 14,647 61,188 75,835 (8,496 ) 2000 Apr-14 5-30 Pointe at Cupertino 116 Cupertino, CA — 4,505 17,605 11,908 4,505 29,513 34,018 (15,789 ) 1963 Aug-98 3-30 Radius 264 Redwood City, CA — 11,702 152,336 18 11,702 152,354 164,056 (20,701 ) 2015 Apr-14 3-30 Reed Square 100 Sunnyvale, CA — 6,873 16,037 8,023 6,873 24,060 30,933 (7,372 ) 1970 Jan-12 3-30 Regency at Encino 75 Encino, CA — 3,184 12,737 3,312 3,184 16,049 19,233 (5,377 ) 1989 Dec-09 3-30 Renaissance at Uptown Orange 460 Orange, CA — 27,870 111,482 4,122 27,870 115,604 143,474 (16,189 ) 2007 Apr-14 5-30 Reveal 438 Woodland Hills, CA — 25,073 121,314 1,104 25,073 122,418 147,491 (12,990 ) 2010 Apr-15 3-30 Salmon Run at Perry Creek 132 Bothell, WA — 3,717 11,483 2,018 3,801 13,417 17,218 (7,639 ) 2000 Oct-00 3-30 Sammamish View 153 Bellevue, WA — 3,324 7,501 6,660 3,331 14,154 17,485 (11,623 ) 1986 Nov-94 3-30 101 San Fernando 323 San Jose, CA — 4,173 58,961 10,473 4,173 69,434 73,607 (20,152 ) 2001 Jul-10 3-30 San Marcos 432 Richmond, CA — 15,563 36,204 30,439 22,866 59,340 82,206 (28,461 ) 2003 Nov-03 3-30 Santee Court/Santee Village 238 Los Angeles, CA — 9,581 40,317 6,383 9,582 46,699 56,281 (12,474 ) 2004 Oct-10 3-30 Shadow Point 172 Spring Valley, CA — 2,812 11,170 3,407 2,820 14,569 17,389 (7,412 ) 1983 Dec-02 3-30 Shadowbrook 418 Redmond, WA — 19,292 77,168 3,892 19,292 81,060 100,352 (11,419 ) 1986 Apr-14 5-30 Slater 116 108 Kirkland, WA — 7,379 22,138 709 7,379 22,847 30,226 (3,446 ) 2013 Sep-13 3-30 Solstice 280 Sunnyvale, CA — 34,444 147,262 4,598 34,444 151,860 186,304 (24,629 ) 2014 Apr-14 5-30 Stonehedge Village 196 Bothell, WA — 3,167 12,603 6,516 3,201 19,085 22,286 (12,875 ) 1986 Oct-97 3-30 Summit Park 300 San Diego, CA — 5,959 23,670 5,915 5,977 29,567 35,544 (15,594 ) 1972 Dec-02 3-30 Taylor 28 197 Seattle, WA — 13,915 57,700 1,892 13,915 59,592 73,507 (8,120 ) 2008 Apr-14 5-30 The Avery 121 Los Angeles, CA — 6,964 29,922 299 6,964 30,221 37,185 (3,810 ) 2014 Mar-14 3-30 The Cairns 99 Seattle, WA — 6,937 20,679 1,459 6,939 22,136 29,075 (8,056 ) 2006 Jun-07 3-30 The Commons 264 Campbell, CA — 12,555 29,307 7,370 12,556 36,676 49,232 (10,676 ) 1973 Jul-10 3-30 The Elliot at Mukilteo 301 Mukilteo, WA — 2,498 10,595 15,566 2,824 25,835 28,659 (18,311 ) 1981 Jan-97 3-30 The Grand 243 Oakland, CA — 4,531 89,208 6,100 4,531 95,308 99,839 (30,858 ) 2009 Jan-09 3-30 The Hallie 292 Pasadena, CA — 2,202 4,794 53,126 8,385 51,737 60,122 (26,284 ) 1972 Apr-97 3-30 The Lofts at Pinehurst 118 Ventura, CA — 1,570 3,912 5,029 1,618 8,893 10,511 (5,311 ) 1971 Jun-97 3-30 The Stuart 188 Pasadena, CA — 13,574 54,298 2,107 13,574 56,405 69,979 (8,211 ) 2007 Apr-14 5-30 The Trails of Redmond 423 Redmond, WA — 21,930 87,720 3,693 21,930 91,413 113,343 (12,928 ) 1985 Apr-14 5-30 Tierra Vista 404 Oxnard, CA — 13,652 53,336 4,972 13,661 58,299 71,960 (27,577 ) 2001 Jan-01 3-30 Tiffany Court 101 Los Angeles, CA — 6,949 27,796 1,541 6,949 29,337 36,286 (4,050 ) 1987 Apr-14 5-30 Trabuco Villas 132 Lake Forest, CA — 3,638 8,640 2,916 3,890 11,304 15,194 (7,610 ) 1985 Oct-97 3-30 Costs Initial cost capitalized Gross amount carried at close of period Apartment Buildings and subsequent to Land and Buildings and Accumulated Date of Date Lives Property Homes Location Encumbrance Land improvements acquisition improvements improvements Total (1) depreciation construction acquired (years) Via 284 Sunnyvale, CA — 22,000 82,270 2,338 22,016 84,592 106,608 (21,879 ) 2011 Jul-11 3-30 Villa Siena 272 Costa Mesa, CA — 13,842 55,367 5,382 13,842 60,749 74,591 (8,651 ) 1974 Apr-14 5-30 Village Green 272 La Habra, CA — 6,488 36,768 3,298 6,488 40,066 46,554 (5,852 ) 1971 Apr-14 5-30 Vista Belvedere 76 Tiburon, CA — 5,573 11,901 8,575 5,573 20,476 26,049 (9,931 ) 1963 Aug-04 3-30 Vox Apartments 58 Seattle, WA — 5,545 16,635 121 5,545 16,756 22,301 (2,360 ) 2013 Oct-13 3-30 Walnut Heights 163 Walnut, CA — 4,858 19,168 4,734 4,887 23,873 28,760 (11,505 ) 1964 Oct-03 3-30 Wharfside Pointe 155 Seattle, WA — 2,245 7,020 11,422 2,258 18,429 20,687 (12,639 ) 1990 Jun-94 3-30 Willow Lake 508 San Jose, CA — 43,194 101,030 12,392 43,194 113,422 156,616 (21,870 ) 1989 Oct-12 3-30 5600 Wilshire 284 Los Angeles, CA — 30,535 91,604 1,828 30,535 93,432 123,967 (13,001 ) 2008 Apr-14 5-30 Wilshire La Brea 478 Los Angeles, CA — 56,932 211,998 8,806 56,932 220,804 277,736 (35,159 ) 2014 Apr-14 5-30 Windsor Ridge 216 Sunnyvale, CA — 4,017 10,315 16,224 4,021 26,535 30,556 (19,282 ) 1989 Mar-89 3-30 Woodland Commons 302 Bellevue, WA — 2,040 8,727 22,839 2,044 31,562 33,606 (18,755 ) 1978 Mar-90 3-30 Woodside Village 145 Ventura, CA — 5,331 21,036 3,974 5,341 25,000 30,341 (11,682 ) 1987 Dec-04 3-30 34,441 $ — $ 1,893,634 $ 6,586,618 $ 1,153,401 $ 1,940,335 $ 7,693,318 $ 9,633,653 $ (1,887,074 ) Costs Initial cost capitalized Gross amount carried at close of period Square Buildings and subsequent Land and Buildings and Accumulated Date of Date Lives Property Footage Location Encumbrance Land improvements to acquisition improvements improvements Total(1) depreciation construction acquired (years) Other real estate assets Derian Office Building 106,564 Irvine, CA — 3,079 12,315 8,332 4,308 19,418 23,726 (13,252 ) 1983 Jul-00 3-30 106,564 $ — $ 3,079 $ 12,315 $ 8,332 $ 4,308 $ 19,418 $ 23,726 $ (13,252 ) Total $ 2,008,417 $ 2,660,937 $ 9,015,672 $ 1,672,222 $ 2,719,064 $ 10,629,767 $ 13,348,831 $ (2,769,297 ) (1) The aggregate cost for federal income tax purposes is approximately $10.6 billion (unaudited). (2) A portion of land is leased pursuant to a ground lease expiring 2070. (3) The land is leased pursuant to a ground lease expiring 2082. (4) The land is leased pursuant to a ground lease expiring 2070. (5) The land is leased pursuant to a ground lease expiring 2027. (6) The land is leased pursuant to a ground lease expiring 2067. (7) A portion of land is leased pursuant to a ground lease expiring in 2028. (8) The land is leased pursuant to a ground lease expiring in 2028. A summary of activity for rental properties and accumulated depreciation is as follows: 2017 2016 2015 2017 2016 2015 Rental properties: Accumulated depreciation: Balance at beginning of year $ 12,676,306 $ 12,331,469 $ 11,244,681 Balance at beginning of year $ 2,311,546 $ 1,949,892 $ 1,564,806 Acquisition, development, and improvement of real estate 700,892 609,669 1,333,102 Depreciation expense 464,043 432,165 402,687 Disposition of real estate and other (28,367 ) (264,832 ) (246,314 ) Depreciation expense - Disposals and other (6,292 ) (70,511 ) (17,601 ) Balance at the end of year $ 13,348,831 $ 12,676,306 $ 12,331,469 Balance at the end of year $ 2,769,297 $ 2,311,546 $ 1,949,892

Summary of Critical and Signi27

Summary of Critical and Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Principles of Consolidation and Basis of Presentation	The accounts of the Company, its controlled subsidiaries and the variable interest entities (“VIEs”) in which it is the primary beneficiary are consolidated in the accompanying financial statements and prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP"). In the opinion of management, all adjustments necessary for a fair presentation of the financial position, results of operations and cash flows for the periods presented have been included and are normal and recurring in nature. All significant inter-company accounts and transactions have been eliminated. Certain reclassifications have been made in prior period amounts to conform to the current year’s presentation. Such reclassifications had no net effect on previously reported financial results. Noncontrolling interest includes the 3.3% limited partner interests in the Operating Partnership not held by the Company at both December 31, 2017 and 2016 . These percentages include the Operating Partnership’s vested long term incentive plan units (see Note 12).
Recent Accounting Pronouncements	In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2014-09 "Revenue from Contracts with Customers." The new standard provides a single comprehensive revenue recognition model for contracts with customers (excluding certain contracts, such as lease contracts) to improve comparability within industries. The new standard requires an entity to recognize revenue to reflect the transfer of goods or services to customers at an amount the entity expects to be paid in exchange for those goods and services and provide enhanced disclosures, all to provide more comprehensive guidance for transactions such as service revenue and contract modifications. In August 2015, the FASB deferred the effective date of the new standard by one year, and it is now effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017. The new standard may be applied using either a full retrospective or a modified approach upon adoption. The Company adopted the new standard as of January 1, 2018, when effective, using the modified approach and recognizing a cumulative effect, if any, as of the date of adoption. The majority of the Company's revenue is derived from rental income, which will be accounted for under ASU No. 2016-02 "Leases", which is discussed below. The Company has reviewed all other revenue streams that could be impacted by the new standard and performed an evaluation of the affect that the new standard will have on its recognition of revenue and all additional required disclosures. Management determined that the new standard will not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated results of operations or financial position and will not affect the Company's debt covenant compliance. However, the Company will provide enhanced revenue recognition disclosures as required by the new standard. In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-01 "Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities", which requires changes to the classification and measurement of investments in certain equity securities and to the presentation of certain fair value changes for financial liabilities measured at fair value. The new standard will be effective for the Company beginning on January 1, 2018. As a result of the adoption of this standard, the Company will recognize changes in fair value of equity investments with readily determinable fair values through net income as opposed to other comprehensive income. The Company does not expect that this amendment will have a material effect on its consolidated results of operations or financial position. In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02 "Leases", which requires an entity that is a lessee to classify leases as either finance or operating and to recognize a lease liability and a right-of-use asset for all leases that have a duration of greater than 12 months. Leases of 12 months or less will be accounted for similar to existing guidance for operating leases today. For lessors, accounting for leases under the new standard will be substantially the same as existing guidance for sales-type leases, direct financing leases, and operating leases, but eliminates current real estate specific provisions and changes the treatment of initial direct costs. The new standard will be effective for the Company beginning on January 1, 2019 and early adoption is permitted, including adoption in an interim period. The new standard must be applied using a modified retrospective approach. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this amendment on its consolidated results of operations and financial position. In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-13 "Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments", which amends the current approach to estimate credit losses on certain financial assets, including trade and other receivables, available-for-sale securities, and other financial instruments. Generally, this amendment requires entities to establish a valuation allowance for the expected lifetime losses of these certain financial assets. Subsequent changes in the valuation allowance are recorded in current earnings and reversal of previous losses are permitted. Currently, GAAP requires entities to write down credit losses only when losses are probable and loss reversals are not permitted. The new standard will be effective for the Company beginning on January 1, 2020 and early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this amendment on its consolidated results of operations and financial position. In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-15 "Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments", which requires entities to adhere to a uniform classification and presentation of certain cash receipts and cash payments in the statement of cash flows. The amendments in this update provide guidance on eight specific cash flow issues. The new standard will be effective for the Company beginning on January 1, 2018. The Company does not expect the impact of this amendment to be material on its consolidated results of operations or financial position. In November 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-18 "Statement of Cash Flows", which requires entities to include restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents in the reconciliation of beginning-of-period to the end-of-period of cash and cash equivalents in the statement of cash flows. This new standard seeks to eliminate the current diversity in practice in how changes in restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents is presented in the statement of cash flows. This new standard will be effective for the Company beginning January 1, 2018. The Company does not expect the impact of this amendment to be material on its consolidated results of operations or financial position. In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-01 "Business Combinations: Clarifying the Definition of a Business", which provides a new framework for determining whether transactions should be accounted for as acquisitions (or disposals) of assets or businesses. Currently, GAAP does not specify the minimum inputs and processes required for an integrated set of assets and activities to meet the definition of a business, causing a broad interpretation of the definition of a business. This new standard will be effective for the Company beginning January 1, 2018. The Company expects that substantially all of its acquisitions of communities will qualify as asset acquisitions and transaction costs related to these acquisitions will be capitalized upon adoption. In February 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-05 "Other Income - Gains and Losses from the Derecognition of Nonfinancial Assets (Subtopic 610-20): Clarifying the Scope of Asset Derecognition Guidance and Accounting for Partial Sales of Nonfinancial Assets", which adds guidance for partial sales of nonfinancial assets, including partial sales of real estate. Historically, GAAP contained several different accounting models to evaluate whether the transfer of certain assets qualified for sale treatment. This new standard reduces the number of potential accounting models that might apply and clarifies which model does apply in various circumstances. Partial sales of nonfinancial assets are common in the real estate industry and include transactions in which the seller retains an equity interest in the entity that owns the assets or has an equity interest in the buyer. This new standard will be effective for the Company beginning January 1, 2018. The new standard allows for either a retrospective or modified retrospective approach. The Company adopted this new standard concurrently with the adoption of ASU 2014-09 "Revenue from Contracts with Customers" as of January 1, 2018. Management has performed an evaluation of all of the Company's contracts that may be affected by the new standard. Based on its analysis, the Company expects to apply the modified retrospective approach by recording a cumulative adjustment to retained earnings of approximately $123.7 million from the sale of minority membership interest in BEX II, LLC ("BEX II") during the fourth quarter of 2016. In August 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-12 "Derivatives and Hedging - Targeted Improvements to Accounting for Hedging Activities", which, among other things, requires entities to present the earnings effect of hedging instruments in the same income statement line item in which the earnings effect of the hedged item is reported. The new standard also adds new disclosure requirements. This new standard will be effective for the Company beginning January 1, 2019 and early adoption is permitted.
Real Estate Rental Properties	Significant expenditures, which improve or extend the life of an asset and have a useful life of greater than one year, are capitalized. Operating real estate assets are stated at cost and consist of land, buildings and improvements, furniture, fixtures and equipment, and other costs incurred during their development, redevelopment and acquisition. Expenditures for maintenance and repairs are charged to expense as incurred. The depreciable life of various categories of fixed assets is as follows: Computer software and equipment 3 - 5 years Interior apartment home improvements 5 years Furniture, fixtures and equipment 5 - 10 years Land improvements and certain exterior components of real property 10 years Real estate structures 30 years The Company capitalizes all costs incurred with the predevelopment, development or redevelopment of real estate assets or are associated with the construction or expansion of real property. Such capitalized costs include land, land improvements, allocated costs of the Company’s project management staff, construction costs, as well as interest and related loan fees, property taxes and insurance. Capitalization begins for predevelopment, development, and redevelopment projects when activity commences. Capitalization ends when the apartment home is completed and the property is available for a new tenant or if the development activities cease. The Company allocates the purchase price of real estate to land and building including personal property, and identifiable intangible assets, such as the value of above, below and in-place leases. The values of the above and below market leases are amortized and recorded as either a decrease (in the case of above market leases) or an increase (in the case of below market leases) to rental revenue over the remaining term of the associated leases acquired. The value of acquired in-place leases are amortized to expense over the average remaining term of the leases acquired. The net carrying value of acquired in-place leases is $0.4 million and $1.4 million as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively, and are included in prepaid expenses and other assets on the Company's consolidated balance sheets. The Company performs the following evaluation for communities acquired: (1) adjust the purchase price for any fair value adjustments resulting from such things as assumed debt or contingencies; (2) estimate the value of the real estate “as if vacant” as of the acquisition date; (3) allocate that value among land and buildings including personal property; (4) compute the value of the difference between the “as if vacant” value and the adjusted purchase price, which will represent the total intangible assets; (5) compute the value of the above and below market leases and determine the associated life of the above market/ below market leases; (6) compute the value of the in-place leases and customer relationships, if any, and the associated lives of these assets. Whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of a property held for investment or held for sale may not be fully recoverable, the carrying amount will be evaluated for impairment. If the sum of the expected future cash flows (undiscounted and without interest charges) is less than the carrying amount (including intangible assets) of a property held for investment, then the Company will recognize an impairment loss equal to the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value of the property. Fair value of a property is determined using conventional real estate valuation methods, such as discounted cash flow, the property’s unleveraged yield in comparison to the unleveraged yields and sales prices of similar communities that have been recently sold, and other third party information, if available. Communities held for sale are carried at the lower of cost and fair value less estimated costs to sell. As of December 31, 2017 , no properties were classified as held for sale. As of December 31, 2016 , one property was classified as held for sale. No impairment charges were recorded for the years ended 2017, 2016 or 2015. In the normal course of business, the Company will receive purchase offers for its communities, either solicited or unsolicited. For those offers that are accepted, the prospective buyer will usually require a due diligence period before consummation of the transaction. It is not unusual for matters to arise that result in the withdrawal or rejection of the offer during this process. The Company classifies real estate as "held for sale" when all criteria under the accounting standard for the disposals of long-lived assets have been met.
Co-investments	The Company owns investments in joint ventures (“co-investments”) in which it has significant influence, but its ownership interest does not meet the criteria for consolidation in accordance with GAAP. Therefore, the Company accounts for co-investments using the equity method of accounting. Under the equity method of accounting, the investment is carried at the cost of assets contributed, plus the Company’s equity in earnings less distributions received and the Company’s share of losses. The significant accounting policies of the Company’s co-investment entities are consistent with those of the Company in all material respects. Upon the acquisition of a controlling interest of a co-investment, the co-investment entity is consolidated and a gain or loss is recognized upon the remeasurement of co-investments in the consolidated statement of income equal to the amount by which the fair value of the co-investment interest the Company previously owned exceeds its carrying value. A majority of the co-investments, excluding the preferred equity investments, compensate the Company for its asset management services and some of these investments may provide promote income if certain financial return benchmarks are achieved. Asset management fees are recognized when earned, and promote fees are recognized when the earnings events have occurred and the amount is determinable and collectible. Any promote fees are reflected in equity income from co-investments. The Company reports investments in co-investments where accumulated distributions have exceeded the Company’s investment as distributions in excess of investments in co-investments in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
Revenues and Gains on Sale of Real Estate	Revenues from tenants renting or leasing apartment homes are recorded when due from tenants and are recognized monthly as they are earned, which is not materially different than on a straight-line basis. Apartment homes are rented under short-term leases (generally, lease terms of 6 to 12 months). Revenues from tenants leasing commercial space are recorded on a straight-line basis over the life of the respective lease. The Company recognizes gains on sales of real estate when a contract is in place, a closing has taken place, the buyer’s initial and continuing investment is adequate to demonstrate a commitment to pay for the property and the Company does not have a substantial continuing involvement with the property.
Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash	Highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less when purchased are classified as cash equivalents. Restricted cash balances relate primarily to reserve requirements for capital replacement at certain communities in connection with the Company’s mortgage debt.
Marketable Securities	The Company reports its available for sale securities at fair value, based on quoted market prices (Level 1 for the common stock and investment funds, Level 2 for the unsecured bonds and Level 3 for investments in mortgage backed securities, as defined by the FASB standard for fair value measurements as discussed later in Note 2), and any unrealized gain or loss is recorded as other comprehensive income. The Company uses the specific identification method to determine the cost basis of a security sold and to reclassify amounts from accumulated other comprehensive loss for securities sold.
Notes Receivable	Notes receivable relate to real estate financing arrangements including mezzanine and bridge loans and are secured by real estate. Interest is recognized over the life of the note as interest income. Each note is analyzed to determine if it is impaired. A note is impaired if it is probable that the Company will not collect all contractually due principal and interest. The Company does not accrue interest when a note is considered impaired and an allowance is recorded for any principal and previously accrued interest that are not believed to be collectible. All cash receipts on impaired notes are applied to reduce the principal amount of such notes until the principal has been recovered and, thereafter, are recognized as interest income.
Capitalization Policy	The Company capitalizes all direct and certain indirect costs, including interest, real estate taxes and insurance, incurred during development and redevelopment activities. Interest is capitalized on real estate assets that require a period of time to get them ready for their intended use. The amount of interest capitalized is based upon the average amount of accumulated development expenditures during the reporting period. Included in capitalized costs are management’s estimates of the direct and incremental personnel costs and indirect project costs associated with the Company's development and redevelopment activities. Indirect project costs consist primarily of personnel costs associated with construction administration and development, including accounting, legal fees, and various corporate and community onsite costs that clearly relate to projects under development. Those costs as well as capitalized development and redevelopment fees totaled $20.3 million , $18.5 million and $17.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively, most of which relates to development projects.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments	The Company values its financial instruments based on the fair value hierarchy of valuation techniques described in the FASB’s accounting standard for fair value measurements. Level 1 inputs are unadjusted, quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities at the measurement date. Level 2 inputs include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets and inputs other than quoted prices observable for the asset or liability. Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs for the asset or liability. The Company uses Level 1 inputs for the fair values of its cash equivalents and its marketable securities except for unsecured bonds and mortgage backed securities. The Company uses Level 2 inputs for its investments in unsecured bonds, notes receivable, notes payable, and derivative assets/liabilities. These inputs include interest rates for similar financial instruments. The Company’s valuation methodology for derivatives is described in Note 8. The Company uses Level 3 inputs to estimate the fair value of its mortgage backed securities. The Company’s assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment, and considers factors specific to the asset or liability. Management believes that the carrying amounts of the outstanding balances under its lines of credit, and notes and other receivables approximate fair value as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , because interest rates, yields and other terms for these instruments are consistent with yields and other terms currently available for similar instruments. Management has estimated that the fair value of fixed rate debt with a carrying value of $4.9 billion and $5.1 billion , including premiums, discounts and debt financing costs, at December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively, to be $5.0 billion and $5.1 billion . Management has estimated the fair value of the Company’s $792.9 million and $499.7 million of variable rate debt, net of debt financing costs, at December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively, to be $793.9 million and $502.8 million based on the terms of existing mortgage notes payable, unsecured debt, and variable rate demand notes compared to those available in the marketplace. Management believes that the carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, accounts payable and accrued liabilities, construction payables, other liabilities and dividends payable approximate fair value as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 due to the short-term maturity of these instruments. Marketable securities, except mortgage backed securities, and derivatives are carried at fair value as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 . At December 31, 2017 and 2016 , the Company’s investments in mortgage backed securities had a carrying value of $109.5 million and $94.4 million , respectively. The Company estimated the fair value of investment in mortgage backed securities at December 31, 2017 and 2016 to be approximately $120.7 million and $108.8 million , respectively. The Company determines the fair value of the mortgage backed securities based on unobservable inputs (Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy) considering the assumptions that market participants would make in valuing these securities. Assumptions such as estimated default rates and discount rates are used to determine expected, discounted cash flows to estimate the fair value.
Interest Rate Protection, Swap, and Forward Contracts	The Company uses interest rate swaps, interest rate caps, and total return swap contracts to manage interest rate risks. The Company’s objective in using derivatives is to add stability to interest expense and to manage its exposure to interest rate movements or other identified risks. To accomplish this objective, the Company primarily uses interest rate swaps and interest rate caps as part of its cash flow hedging strategy. The Company records all derivatives on its consolidated balance sheets at fair value. The accounting for changes in the fair value of derivatives depends on the intended use of the derivative and the resulting designation. Derivatives used to hedge the exposure to changes in the fair value of an asset, liability, or firm commitment attributable to a particular risk, such as interest rate risk, are considered fair value hedges. Derivatives used to hedge the exposure to variability in expected future cash flows, or other types of forecasted transactions, are considered cash flow hedges. For derivatives designated for accounting purposes as fair value hedges, changes in the fair value of the derivative and the hedged item related to the hedged risk are recognized in earnings. For derivatives designated for accounting purposes as cash flow hedges, the effective portion of changes in the fair value of the derivative is initially reported in other comprehensive income (outside of earnings) and subsequently reclassified to earnings when the hedged transaction affects earnings, and the ineffective portion of changes in the fair value of the derivative is recognized directly in earnings. The Company assesses the initial and ongoing effectiveness of each hedging relationship by comparing the changes in fair value or cash flows of the derivative hedging instrument with the changes in fair value or cash flows of the designated hedged item or transaction. For derivatives not designated for accounting purposes as cash flow hedges, changes in fair value are recognized in earnings. All of the Company’s interest rate swaps are considered cash flow hedges.
Income Taxes	Generally in any year in which Essex qualifies as a real estate investment trust (“REIT”) under the Internal Revenue Code (the “IRC”), it is not subject to federal income tax on that portion of its income that it distributes to stockholders. No provision for federal income taxes, other than the taxable REIT subsidiaries discussed below, has been made in the accompanying consolidated financial statements for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2017 as Essex has elected to be and believes it qualifies under the IRC as a REIT and has made distributions during the periods in amounts to preclude Essex from paying federal income tax. In order to maintain compliance with REIT tax rules, the Company utilizes taxable REIT subsidiaries for various revenue generating or investment activities. The taxable REIT subsidiaries are consolidated by the Company. In general, the activities and tax related provisions, assets and liabilities are not material. In 2016, a taxable REIT subsidiary sold two properties that it had acquired in 2007, resulting in the Company's recognition of a deferred income tax expense of approximately $4.4 million . On December 22, 2017 the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (“Tax Act”) was signed into law, which reduced the federal income tax rate from 35% to 21% effective January 1, 2018. As a result of the Tax Act, we remeasured our net deferred tax liabilities at December 31, 2017, accordingly a net tax benefit of $1.5 million was recorded. As a partnership, the Operating Partnership is not subject to federal or state income taxes, except that in order to maintain Essex's compliance with REIT tax rules that are applicable to Essex, the Operating Partnership utilizes taxable REIT subsidiaries for various revenue generating or investment activities. The taxable REIT subsidiaries are consolidated by the Operating Partnership.
Equity-based Compensation	The cost of share and unit based compensation awards is measured at the grant date based on the estimated fair value of the awards. The estimated fair value of stock options and restricted stock granted by the Company are being amortized over the vesting period. The estimated grant date fair values of the long term incentive plan units (discussed in Note 12) are being amortized over the expected service periods.
Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss by Component	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss in connection with derivatives are recorded in interest expense on the consolidated statements of income. Realized gains and losses on available for sale securities are included in interest and other income on the consolidated statements of income.
Accounting Estimates	The preparation of consolidated financial statements, in accordance with GAAP, requires the Company to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses and related disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities. On an on-going basis, the Company evaluates its estimates, including those related to acquiring, developing and assessing the carrying values of its real estate portfolio, its investments in and advances to joint ventures and affiliates, and its notes receivable. The Company bases its estimates on historical experience, current market conditions, and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results may vary from those estimates and those estimates could be different under different assumptions or conditions.
Variable Interest Entities	In accordance with accounting standards for consolidation of VIEs, the Company consolidates the Operating Partnership and 16 DownREIT limited partnerships (comprising eight communities), and eight co-investments as of December 31, 2017 . The Company consolidates these entities because it is deemed the primary beneficiary. The Company has no assets or liabilities other than its investment in the Operating Partnership. The consolidated total assets and liabilities related to the eight consolidated co-investments and 16 DownREIT limited partnerships, net of intercompany eliminations, were approximately $837.7 million and $265.5 million , respectively, as of December 31, 2017 , and $746.1 million and $221.3 million , respectively, as of December 31, 2016 . Noncontrolling interests in these entities was $66.7 million and $45.4 million as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively. The Company's financial risk in each VIE is limited to its equity investment in the VIE. The DownREIT VIEs collectively own eight apartment communities in which Essex Management Company (“EMC”) is the general partner, the Operating Partnership is a special limited partner, and the other limited partners were granted rights of redemption for their interests. Such limited partners can request to be redeemed and the Company, subject to certain restrictions, can elect to redeem their rights for cash or by issuing shares of its common stock on a one share per unit basis. Conversion values will be based on the market value of the Company's common stock at the time of redemption multiplied by the number of units stipulated under various arrangements, as noted above. The other limited partners receive distributions based on the Company's current dividend rate times the number of units held. Total DownREIT limited partnership units outstanding were 917,593 and 952,140 as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 respectively, and the redemption value of the units, based on the closing price of the Company’s common stock totaled approximately $221.5 million and $221.4 million , as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively. The carrying value of redeemable noncontrolling interest in the accompanying balance sheets was $39.2 million and $44.7 million as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively. The amounts represent units of limited partners' interests in DownREIT VIEs as to which it is outside of the Company’s control to redeem the DownREIT limited partnership units with Company common stock and may potentially be redeemed for cash, and are presented at either their redemption value or historical cost, depending on the limited partner's right to redeem their units as of the balance sheet date. The carrying value of DownREIT limited partnership units as to which it is within the control of the Company to redeem the units with its common stock was $32.4 million and $18.6 million as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively and is classified within noncontrolling interests in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Interest holders in VIEs consolidated by the Company are allocated a priority of net income equal to the cash payments made to those interest holders or distributions from cash flow. The remaining results of operations are generally allocated to the Company.

Summary of Critical and Signi28

Summary of Critical and Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Summary of Critical and Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Depreciable life of various categories of fixed assets	The depreciable life of various categories of fixed assets is as follows: Computer software and equipment 3 - 5 years Interior apartment home improvements 5 years Furniture, fixtures and equipment 5 - 10 years Land improvements and certain exterior components of real property 10 years Real estate structures 30 years
Components of Marketable Securities	As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 marketable securities consist of the following ($ in thousands): December 31, 2017 Amortized Cost Gross Unrealized Gain (Loss) Carrying Value Available for sale: Investment-grade unsecured bonds $ 4,365 $ (40 ) $ 4,325 Investment funds - debt securities 27,914 (29 ) 27,885 Investment funds - U.S. treasuries 10,999 (55 ) 10,944 Common stock and stock funds 34,329 2,973 37,302 Held to maturity: Mortgage backed securities 109,548 — 109,548 Total - Marketable securities $ 187,155 $ 2,849 $ 190,004 December 31, 2016 Amortized Cost Gross Unrealized Gain (Loss) Carrying Value Available for sale: Investment funds - debt securities $ 19,604 $ (73 ) $ 19,531 Investment funds - U.S. treasuries 10,022 (22 ) 10,000 Common stock and stock funds 13,696 1,569 15,265 Held to maturity: Mortgage backed securities 94,393 — 94,393 Total - Marketable securities $ 137,715 $ 1,474 $ 139,189
Status of cash dividends distributed	The status of cash dividends distributed for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 related to common stock and Series H preferred stock are classified for tax purposes as follows: 2017 2016 2015 Common Stock Ordinary income 84.04 % 86.68 % 99.28 % Capital gain 13.20 % 7.11 % 0.72 % Unrecaptured section 1250 capital gain 2.76 % 6.21 % — % 100.00 % 100.00 % 100.00 % 2017 2016 2015 Series H Preferred stock Ordinary income — % 86.68 % 99.28 % Capital gains — % 7.11 % 0.72 % Unrecaptured section 1250 capital gain — % 6.21 % — % — % 100.00 % 100.00 %
Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net by Component	Essex Property Trust, Inc. ($ in thousands) Change in fair value and amortization of swap settlements Unrealized gains on available for sale securities Total Balance at December 31, 2016 $ (32,963 ) $ 865 $ (32,098 ) Other comprehensive income before reclassification 24,634 3,176 27,810 Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss (12,312 ) (1,846 ) (14,158 ) Other comprehensive income 12,322 1,330 13,652 Balance at December 31, 2017 $ (20,641 ) $ 2,195 $ (18,446 )
Changes in the redemption value of redeemable noncontrolling interests	The changes in the redemption value of redeemable noncontrolling interests for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 is as follows: 2017 2016 2015 Balance at January 1, $ 44,684 $ 45,452 $ 23,256 Reclassifications due to change in redemption value and other 65 (768 ) 22,196 Redemptions (5,543 ) — — Balance at December 31, $ 39,206 $ 44,684 $ 45,452
Essex Portfolio, L.P. [Member]
Summary of Critical and Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net by Component	Essex Portfolio, L.P. ($ in thousands) Change in fair value and amortization of swap settlements Unrealized gains on available for sale securities Total Balance at December 31, 2016 $ (30,161 ) $ 813 $ (29,348 ) Other comprehensive income before reclassification 25,477 3,284 28,761 Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss (12,733 ) (1,909 ) (14,642 ) Other comprehensive income 12,744 1,375 14,119 Balance at December 31, 2017 $ (17,417 ) $ 2,188 $ (15,229 )

Real Estate Investments (Tables

Real Estate Investments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Real Estate Investments, Net [Abstract]
Schedule of Real Estate Properties	The table below summarizes acquisition activity for the year ended December 31, 2017 ($ in millions): Property Name Location Apartment Homes Essex Ownership Percentage Quarter in 2017 Purchase Price Palm Valley (1) San Jose, CA 1,098 100 % Q1 $ 183.0 Sage at Cupertino (2) San Jose, CA 230 41 % Q1 90.0 Total 2017 1,328 $ 273.0 (1) In January 2017, the Company purchased its joint venture partner's 50.0% membership interest in the Palm Valley co-investment for a purchase price of $183.0 million . (2) In March 2017, the Company converted its existing $15.3 million preferred equity investment in Sage at Cupertino into a 40.5% equity ownership interest in the property. The Company issued DownREIT limited partnership units to the seller for the remaining equity based on an estimated property valuation of $90.0 million and an encumbrance of $52.0 million of mortgage debt. Based on a consolidation analysis performed by the Company, the property was consolidated as the Company controls the entity.
Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations	The table below summarizes disposition activity of operating communities for the year ended December 31, 2017 ($ in millions): Property Name Location Apartment Homes Essex Ownership Percentage Ownership Quarter in 2017 Sales Price Gains Jefferson at Hollywood Hollywood, CA 270 100 % EPLP Q1 $ 132.5 $ 26.2 Total 2017 270 $ 132.5 $ 26.2
Summary of Co Investment	The carrying values of the Company’s co-investments as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 are as follows ($ in thousands): Weighted Average Essex Ownership December 31, Percentage (1) 2017 2016 Membership interest/Partnership interest in: CPPIB 54 % $ 500,287 $ 422,068 Wesco I, III and IV, and V 53 % 214,408 180,687 Palm Valley (2) 50 % — 68,396 BEXAEW, BEX II and BEX III (3) 50 % 13,827 67,041 Other 52 % 51,810 43,713 Total operating and other co-investments, net 780,332 781,905 Total development co-investments, net 50 % 73,770 157,317 Total preferred interest co-investments (includes related party investments of $15.7 million and $35.9 million as of December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively - FN 5 - Related Party Transactions for further discussion) 265,156 222,053 Total co-investments $ 1,119,258 $ 1,161,275 (1) Weighted average Essex ownership percentages are as of December 31, 2017. (2) In January 2017, the Company purchased its joint venture partner's 50.0% interest in Palm Valley and as a result of this acquisition, the Company consolidates Palm Valley. (3) As of December 31, 2017, the Company's investment in BEX II was classified as a liability of $36.7 million .
Summarized Financial Statement for Co Investment Accounted for Under the Equity Method	The combined summarized financial information of co-investments is as follows ($ in thousands): December 31, 2017 2016 Combined balance sheets: (1) Rental properties and real estate under development $ 3,722,778 $ 3,807,245 Other assets 110,333 121,505 Total assets $ 3,833,111 $ 3,928,750 Debt $ 1,705,051 $ 1,617,639 Other liabilities 45,515 74,607 Equity 2,082,545 2,236,504 Total liabilities and equity $ 3,833,111 $ 3,928,750 Company's share of equity $ 1,155,984 $ 1,161,275 Years ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 Combined statements of income: (1) Property revenues $ 312,841 $ 289,011 $ 260,175 Property operating expenses (110,583 ) (99,637 ) (93,067 ) Net operating income 202,258 189,374 167,108 Gain on sale of real estate 90,663 28,291 14 Interest expense (62,844 ) (46,894 ) (44,834 ) General and administrative (9,091 ) (7,448 ) (5,879 ) Depreciation and amortization (118,048 ) (103,986 ) (103,613 ) Net income $ 102,938 $ 59,337 $ 12,796 Company's share of net income (2) $ 86,445 $ 48,698 $ 21,861 (1) Includes preferred equity investments held by the Company. (2) Includes the Company's share of equity income from co-investments and preferred equity investments, gain on sales of co-investments, co-investment promote income and income from early redemption of preferred equity investments. Includes related party income of $1.9 million , $3.4 million , and $3.7 million for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016, and 2015, respectively.

Notes and Other Receivables (Ta

Notes and Other Receivables (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Notes and Other Receivables [Abstract]
Notes and Other Receivables	Notes receivables, secured by real estate, and other receivables consist of the following as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 ($ in thousands): 2017 2016 Notes receivable, secured, bearing interest at 10.00%, due May 2021 $ 13,762 $ — Note receivable, secured, bearing interest at 10.75%, due September 2020 29,318 17,685 Related party note receivable, secured, bearing interest at 9.50%, due October 2019 (1) 6,656 6,593 Related party note receivable, secured, bearing interest at 3.50%, due March 2018 (1) 29,500 — Notes and other receivables from affiliates (2) 5,061 4,695 Other receivables 16,629 11,997 Total notes and receivables $ 100,926 $ 40,970 (1) See Note 5, Related Party Transactions, for additional details. (2) These amounts consist of short-term loans outstanding and due from various joint ventures as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. See Note 5, Related Party Transactions, for additional details.

Unsecured Debt (Tables)

Unsecured Debt (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of unsecured debt and lines of credit	Unsecured debt consists of the following as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 ($ in thousands): 2017 2016 Weighted Average Maturity In Years Unsecured bonds private placement - fixed rate $ 274,427 $ 314,190 3.1 Term loan - variable rate 348,545 98,189 4.1 Bonds public offering - fixed rate 2,878,737 2,834,400 6.4 Unsecured debt, net (1) 3,501,709 3,246,779 Lines of credit (2) 179,000 125,000 Total unsecured debt $ 3,680,709 $ 3,371,779 Weighted average interest rate on fixed rate unsecured bonds private placement and bonds public offering 3.7 % 3.6 % Weighted average interest rate on variable rate term loan 2.5 % 2.3 % Weighted average interest rate on lines of credit 2.3 % 1.8 % (1) Includes unamortized discount of $5.2 million and $0.1 million and unamortized debt issuance costs of $18.1 million and $18.1 million as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively. (2) Lines of credit, related to the Company's two lines of unsecured credit aggregating $1.03 billion , excludes unamortized debt issuance costs of $3.2 million and $3.3 million as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. These debt issuance costs are included in prepaid expenses and other assets on the consolidated balance sheets.
Summary of unsecured private placement bonds	The following is a summary of the Company’s unsecured private placement bonds as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 ($ in thousands): Maturity 2017 2016 Coupon Rate Senior unsecured private placement notes September 2017 $ — $ 40,000 4.50 % Senior unsecured private placement notes December 2019 75,000 75,000 4.92 % Senior unsecured private placement notes April 2021 100,000 100,000 4.27 % Senior unsecured private placement notes June 2021 50,000 50,000 4.30 % Senior unsecured private placement notes August 2021 50,000 50,000 4.37 % $ 275,000 $ 315,000
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments	The following is a summary of the Company’s senior unsecured notes as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 ($ in thousands): Maturity 2017 2016 Coupon Senior notes March 2017 $ — $ 300,000 5.500 % Senior notes March 2021 300,000 300,000 5.200 % Senior notes August 2022 300,000 300,000 3.625 % Senior notes January 2023 300,000 300,000 3.375 % Senior notes May 2023 300,000 300,000 3.250 % Senior notes May 2024 400,000 400,000 3.875 % Senior notes April 2025 500,000 500,000 3.500 % Senior notes April 2026 450,000 450,000 3.375 % Senior notes May 2027 350,000 — 3.625 % $ 2,900,000 $ 2,850,000 Mortgage notes payable consist of the following as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 ($ in thousands): 2017 2016 Fixed rate mortgage notes payable $ 1,739,856 $ 1,911,699 Variable rate mortgage notes payable (1) 268,561 279,782 Total mortgage notes payable (2) $ 2,008,417 $ 2,191,481 Number of properties securing mortgage notes 56 61 Remaining terms 1-29 years 1-30 years Weighted average interest rate 4.2 % 4.3 %
Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt	The aggregate scheduled principal payments of unsecured debt payable, excluding lines of credit, at December 31, 2017 are as follows ($ in thousands): 2018 $ — 2019 75,000 2020 — 2021 (1) 500,000 2022 650,000 Thereafter 2,300,000 $ 3,525,000 (1) Amount does not include $179.0 million outstanding on the Company's lines of credit as of December 31, 2017, that becomes due in December 2021 in accordance with the January 2018 amendment. The aggregate scheduled principal payments of mortgage notes payable at December 31, 2017 are as follows ($ in thousands): 2018 $ 202,131 2019 560,389 2020 694,921 2021 44,846 2022 42,466 Thereafter 435,808 $ 1,980,561 (1) Variable rate mortgage notes payable, including $256.6 million in bonds that have been converted to variable rate through total return swap contracts, consists of multi-family housing mortgage revenue bonds secured by deeds of trust on rental properties and guaranteed by collateral pledge agreements, payable monthly at a variable rate as defined in the Loan Agreement (approximately 2.0% at December 2017 and 1.2% at December 2016) including credit enhancement and underwriting fees. Among the terms imposed on the properties, which are security for the bonds, is a requirement that 20% of the apartment homes are subject to tenant income criteria. Principal balances are due in full at various maturity dates from May 2025 through December 2046. Of these bonds, $20.7 million are subject to various interest rate cap agreements that limit the maximum interest rate to such bonds. (2) Includes total unamortized premium of $ 33.2 million and $ 50.8 million and reduced by unamortized debt issuance costs of $5.4 million and $7.4 million as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively.

Mortgage Notes Payable (Tables)

Mortgage Notes Payable (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Notes Payable [Abstract]
Mortgages notes payable	The following is a summary of the Company’s senior unsecured notes as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 ($ in thousands): Maturity 2017 2016 Coupon Senior notes March 2017 $ — $ 300,000 5.500 % Senior notes March 2021 300,000 300,000 5.200 % Senior notes August 2022 300,000 300,000 3.625 % Senior notes January 2023 300,000 300,000 3.375 % Senior notes May 2023 300,000 300,000 3.250 % Senior notes May 2024 400,000 400,000 3.875 % Senior notes April 2025 500,000 500,000 3.500 % Senior notes April 2026 450,000 450,000 3.375 % Senior notes May 2027 350,000 — 3.625 % $ 2,900,000 $ 2,850,000 Mortgage notes payable consist of the following as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 ($ in thousands): 2017 2016 Fixed rate mortgage notes payable $ 1,739,856 $ 1,911,699 Variable rate mortgage notes payable (1) 268,561 279,782 Total mortgage notes payable (2) $ 2,008,417 $ 2,191,481 Number of properties securing mortgage notes 56 61 Remaining terms 1-29 years 1-30 years Weighted average interest rate 4.2 % 4.3 %
Aggregate scheduled principal payments of mortgage notes payable	The aggregate scheduled principal payments of unsecured debt payable, excluding lines of credit, at December 31, 2017 are as follows ($ in thousands): 2018 $ — 2019 75,000 2020 — 2021 (1) 500,000 2022 650,000 Thereafter 2,300,000 $ 3,525,000 (1) Amount does not include $179.0 million outstanding on the Company's lines of credit as of December 31, 2017, that becomes due in December 2021 in accordance with the January 2018 amendment. The aggregate scheduled principal payments of mortgage notes payable at December 31, 2017 are as follows ($ in thousands): 2018 $ 202,131 2019 560,389 2020 694,921 2021 44,846 2022 42,466 Thereafter 435,808 $ 1,980,561 (1) Variable rate mortgage notes payable, including $256.6 million in bonds that have been converted to variable rate through total return swap contracts, consists of multi-family housing mortgage revenue bonds secured by deeds of trust on rental properties and guaranteed by collateral pledge agreements, payable monthly at a variable rate as defined in the Loan Agreement (approximately 2.0% at December 2017 and 1.2% at December 2016) including credit enhancement and underwriting fees. Among the terms imposed on the properties, which are security for the bonds, is a requirement that 20% of the apartment homes are subject to tenant income criteria. Principal balances are due in full at various maturity dates from May 2025 through December 2046. Of these bonds, $20.7 million are subject to various interest rate cap agreements that limit the maximum interest rate to such bonds. (2) Includes total unamortized premium of $ 33.2 million and $ 50.8 million and reduced by unamortized debt issuance costs of $5.4 million and $7.4 million as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively.

Lease Agreements (Tables)

Lease Agreements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Leases [Abstract]
Future minimum non-cancelable base rent under operating leases	The future minimum non-cancelable base rent to be received under these operating leases for each of the years ending after December 31 is summarized as follows ($ in thousands): Future Minimum Rent 2018 $ 13,791 2019 13,257 2020 12,392 2021 10,745 2022 9,486 Thereafter 28,454 $ 88,125

Net Income Per Common Share a34

Net Income Per Common Share and Net Income Per Common Unit (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Net Income Per Share and Net Income Per Unit [Line Items]
Net Income Per Common Share and Net Income Per Unit	Basic and diluted income per share is calculated as follows for the years ended December 31 ($ in thousands, except share and per share amounts): 2017 2016 2015 Income Weighted- average Common Shares Per Common Share Amount Income Weighted- average Common Shares Per Common Share Amount Income Weighted- average Common Shares Per Common Share Amount Basic: Net income available to common stockholders 433,059 65,829,155 $ 6.58 411,124 65,471,540 $ 6.28 226,865 64,871,717 $ 3.50 Effect of Dilutive Securities Stock options — 69,100 — 116,276 — 189,968 Diluted: Net income available to common stockholders 433,059 65,898,255 $ 6.57 411,124 65,587,816 $ 6.27 226,865 65,061,685 $ 3.49 The table above excludes from the calculations of diluted earnings per share weighted average convertible OP Units of 2,252,575 , 2,224,100 , and 2,182,467 , which include vested Series Z Incentive Units, Series Z-1 Incentive Units, 2014 Long-Term Incentive Plan Units, and 2015 Long-Term Incentive Plan Units, for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively, because they were anti-dilutive. The related income allocated to these convertible OP Units aggregated $14.8 million , $14.1 million , and $7.8 million for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016, and 2015, respectively. Additionally, the table excludes all DownREIT limited partnership units for which the Operating Partnership has the ability and intention to redeem the units for cash and does not consider them to be common stock equivalents.
Essex Portfolio, L.P. [Member]
Net Income Per Share and Net Income Per Unit [Line Items]
Net Income Per Common Share and Net Income Per Unit	Basic and diluted income per unit is calculated as follows for the years ended December 31 ($ in thousands, except unit and per unit amounts): 2017 2016 2015 Income Weighted- average Common Units Per Common Unit Amount Income Weighted- average Common Units Per Common Unit Amount Income Weighted- average Common Units Per Common Unit Amount Basic: Net income available to common unitholders $ 447,884 68,081,730 $ 6.58 $ 425,213 67,695,640 $ 6.28 $ 234,689 67,054,184 $ 3.50 Effect of Dilutive Securities Stock options — 69,100 — 116,276 — 189,968 Diluted: Net income available to common unitholders $ 447,884 68,150,830 $ 6.57 $ 425,213 67,811,916 $ 6.27 $ 234,689 67,244,152 $ 3.49

Equity Based Compensation Pla35

Equity Based Compensation Plans (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Share-based Compensation [Abstract]
Weighted average assumptions used to estimate fair value of stock options	The fair value of stock options was estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following weighted average assumptions used for grants: 2017 2016 2015 Stock price $ 240.56 $ 219.60 $ 227.75 Risk-free interest rates 2.30 % 2.08 % 1.83 % Expected lives 6 years 6 years 6 years Volatility 24.10 % 26.47 % 20.06 % Dividend yield 2.90 % 2.89 % 2.73 %
Summary of stock options activity	A summary of the status of the Company’s stock option plans as of December 31, 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 and changes during the years ended on those dates is presented below: 2017 2016 2015 Shares Weighted- average exercise price Shares Weighted- average exercise price Shares Weighted- average exercise price Outstanding at beginning of year 557,648 $ 181.50 525,094 $ 154.98 664,785 $ 138.78 Granted 164,677 240.56 207,429 219.60 78,600 227.75 Exercised (176,489 ) 146.86 (138,054 ) 138.79 (203,556 ) 131.53 Forfeited and canceled (9,628 ) 160.40 (36,821 ) 178.18 (14,735 ) 136.11 Outstanding at end of year 536,208 211.41 557,648 181.50 525,094 154.98 Options exercisable at year end 223,796 191.09 290,340 160.90 342,048 152.42
Restricted stock activity	The following table summarizes information about restricted stock outstanding as of December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 and changes during the years ended: 2017 2016 2015 Shares Weighted- average grant price Shares Weighted- average grant price Shares Weighted- average grant price Unvested at beginning of year 58,349 $ 149.11 54,676 $ 147.10 25,820 $ 168.22 Granted 62,706 177.28 49,183 150.13 56,177 155.21 Vested (29,675 ) 170.17 (38,427 ) 147.12 (22,939 ) 148.20 Forfeited and canceled (557 ) 119.37 (7,083 ) 141.76 (4,382 ) 122.06 Unvested at end of year 90,823 163.49 58,349 149.11 54,676 147.10
Summary of long term incentive plan - Z Units	The following table summarizes information about the LTIP Units outstanding as of December 31, 2017 : Long Term Incentive Plan - LTIP Units Total Vested Units Total Unvested Units Total Outstanding Units Weighted- average Grant-date Fair Value Weighted- average Remaining Contractual Life (years) Balance, December 31, 2014 181,919 151,067 332,986 $ 71.14 10.5 Granted — — — Vested 36,650 (36,650 ) — Converted (74,384 ) — (74,384 ) Cancelled — (8,260 ) (8,260 ) Balance, December 31, 2015 144,185 106,157 250,342 $ 75.41 9.5 Granted — — — Vested 36,842 (36,842 ) — Converted — — — Cancelled — (9,288 ) (9,288 ) Balance, December 31, 2016 181,027 60,027 241,054 $ 75.11 8.5 Granted — — — Vested 32,961 (32,961 ) — Converted (688 ) — (688 ) Cancelled — (3,854 ) (3,854 ) Balance, December 31, 2017 213,300 23,212 236,512 $ 75.03 7.5

Segment Information (Tables)

Segment Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Reconciliation Of Revenues And Operating Profit Loss From Segments To Consolidated	The revenues and net operating income for each of the reportable operating segments are summarized as follows for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 , and 2015 ($ in thousands): Years Ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 Revenues: Southern California $ 596,217 $ 561,094 $ 507,536 Northern California 505,313 453,140 407,590 Seattle Metro 229,871 217,259 201,417 Other real estate assets 22,924 54,230 68,955 Total property revenues $ 1,354,325 $ 1,285,723 $ 1,185,498 Net operating income: Southern California $ 409,133 $ 382,312 $ 340,797 Northern California 363,238 325,394 291,168 Seattle Metro 156,404 148,279 136,579 Other real estate assets 20,008 40,811 53,446 Total net operating income 948,783 896,796 821,990 Management and other fees from affiliates 9,574 8,278 8,909 Depreciation and amortization (468,881 ) (441,682 ) (453,423 ) General and administrative (41,385 ) (40,751 ) (40,090 ) Merger and integration expenses — — (3,798 ) Acquisition and investment related costs (1,569 ) (1,841 ) (2,414 ) Interest expense (222,894 ) (219,654 ) (204,827 ) Total return swap income 10,098 11,716 5,655 Interest and other income 24,604 27,305 19,143 Equity income from co-investments 86,445 48,698 21,861 Loss on early retirement of debt (1,796 ) (606 ) (6,114 ) Gain on sale of real estate and land 26,423 154,561 47,333 Deferred tax expense on gain on sale of real estate and land — (4,410 ) — Gain on remeasurement of co-investment 88,641 — 34,014 Net income $ 458,043 $ 438,410 $ 248,239
Reconciliation of Assets from Segment to Consolidated	Total assets for each of the reportable operating segments are summarized as follows as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 ($ in thousands): As of December 31, Assets: 2017 2016 Southern California $ 4,788,225 $ 4,924,792 Northern California 4,215,449 3,791,549 Seattle Metro 1,520,372 1,570,340 Other real estate assets 55,488 78,079 Net reportable operating segments - real estate assets 10,579,534 10,364,760 Real estate under development 355,735 190,505 Co-investments 1,155,984 1,161,275 Real estate held for sale, net — 101,957 Cash and cash equivalents, including restricted cash 61,126 170,302 Marketable securities 190,004 139,189 Notes and other receivables 100,926 40,970 Prepaid expenses and other assets 52,397 48,450 Total assets $ 12,495,706 $ 12,217,408

Commitments and Contingencies (

Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Minimum Lease Commitments	The total minimum lease commitments, under ground-leases and operating leases, for each of the years ending December 31 is summarized as follows ($ in thousands): Total Minimum Lease Commitments 2018 $ 4,723 2019 4,782 2020 4,842 2021 4,905 2022 4,970 Thereafter 112,361 $ 136,583

Quarterly Results of Operatio38

Quarterly Results of Operations (Unaudited) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Quarterly Results of Operations (Unaudited) [Abstract]
Summary of quarterly results of operations	Essex Property Trust, Inc. The following is a summary of quarterly results of operations for 2017 and 2016 ( $ in thousands, except per share and dividend amounts ): Quarter ended December 31 Quarter ended September 30 Quarter ended June 30 Quarter ended March 31 2017: Total property revenues $ 342,417 $ 341,974 $ 336,766 $ 333,168 Net income $ 109,662 $ 85,035 $ 75,795 $ 187,551 Net income available to common stockholders $ 103,613 $ 79,723 $ 70,759 $ 178,964 Per share data: Net income: Basic (1) $ 1.57 $ 1.21 $ 1.08 $ 2.73 Diluted (1) $ 1.57 $ 1.21 $ 1.08 $ 2.72 Market price: High $ 264.07 $ 270.04 $ 268.97 $ 238.57 Low $ 237.33 $ 249.46 $ 229.14 $ 218.41 Close $ 241.37 $ 254.03 $ 257.27 $ 231.53 Dividends declared $ 1.75 $ 1.75 $ 1.75 $ 1.75 2016: Total property revenues $ 326,905 $ 327,078 $ 319,562 $ 312,178 Net income $ 204,517 $ 70,162 $ 76,824 $ 86,907 Net income available to common stockholders $ 195,569 $ 65,561 $ 72,013 $ 77,981 Per share data: Net income: Basic (1) $ 2.98 $ 1.00 $ 1.10 $ 1.19 Diluted (1) $ 2.98 $ 1.00 $ 1.10 $ 1.19 Market price: High $ 234.07 $ 236.56 $ 237.50 $ 240.55 Low $ 200.01 $ 217.16 $ 207.20 $ 191.25 Close $ 232.50 $ 222.70 $ 228.09 $ 233.86 Dividends declared $ 1.60 $ 1.60 $ 1.60 $ 1.60 (1) Quarterly earnings per common unit amounts may not total to the annual amounts due to rounding and the changes in the number of weighted common units outstanding and included in the calculation of basic and diluted shares.
Essex Portfolio, L.P. [Member]
Quarterly Results of Operations (Unaudited) [Abstract]
Summary of quarterly results of operations	Essex Portfolio, L.P. The following is a summary of quarterly results of operations for 2017 and 2016 ( $ in thousands, except per unit and distribution amounts ): Quarter ended December 31 Quarter ended September 30 Quarter ended June 30 Quarter ended March 31 2017: Total property revenues $ 342,417 $ 341,974 $ 336,766 $ 333,168 Net income $ 109,662 $ 85,035 $ 75,795 $ 187,551 Net income available to common unitholders $ 107,149 $ 82,444 $ 73,181 $ 185,110 Per unit data: Net income: Basic (1) $ 1.57 $ 1.21 $ 1.08 $ 2.73 Diluted (1) $ 1.57 $ 1.21 $ 1.08 $ 2.72 Distributions declared $ 1.75 $ 1.75 $ 1.75 $ 1.75 2016: Total property revenues $ 326,905 $ 327,078 $ 319,562 $ 312,178 Net income $ 204,517 $ 70,162 $ 76,824 $ 86,907 Net income available to common unitholders $ 202,201 $ 67,784 $ 74,463 $ 80,765 Per unit data: Net income: Basic (1) $ 2.98 $ 1.00 $ 1.10 $ 1.19 Diluted (1) $ 2.98 $ 1.00 $ 1.10 $ 1.19 Distributions declared $ 1.60 $ 1.60 $ 1.60 $ 1.60 (1) Quarterly earnings per common unit amounts may not total to the annual amounts due to rounding and the changes in the number of weighted common units outstanding and included in the calculation of basic and diluted shares.

Organization (Details)

Organization (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017shares	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)shares	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017community	Dec. 31, 2017building	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2017investment	Dec. 31, 2017apartment	Dec. 31, 2017project
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
General partner ownership interest	96.70%	96.70%
Limited partner - ownership percentage		3.30%				3.30%
Operating Partnership units outstanding (in shares) | shares	2,268,114	2,237,290
Redemption value of Operating Partnership units outstanding | $		$ 520.2	$ 547.5
Number of apartment communities owned | community				247
Apartment units owned | apartment								60,239
Ownership interests, number of commercial buildings | building					1
Ownership interests, number of active development projects							2		7

Summary of Critical and Signi40

Summary of Critical and Significant Accounting Policies (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)communityinvestmentpartnershipshares	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)propertycommunityshares	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)
Principles of Consolidation [Abstract]
Noncontrolling interest in Operating Partnership	3.30%	3.30%
Real Estate Rental Properties [Abstract]
Threshold useful life of assets for capitalization	1 year
Depreciable life of various categories of fixed assets [Abstract]
Acquired in-place lease value, net	$ 400,000	$ 1,400,000
Number of communities held-for-sale | community	0	1
Revenues and Gains on Sale of Real Estate [Abstract]
Lease terms, minimum	6 months
Lease terms, maximum	12 months
Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash [Abstract]
Original maturities of highly liquid investments to be classified as cash equivalents, maximum	3 months
Marketable Securities [Abstract]
Maturity date of investments in mortgage backed securities, first	November 2,019	November 2,019
Maturity date of investments in mortgage backed securities, final	September 2,020	September 2,020
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Available for sale - Carrying Value	$ 190,004,000	$ 139,189,000
Held-to-maturity Securities [Abstract]
Total marketable securities and other investments, Amortized Cost	187,155,000	137,715,000
Total marketable securities and other investments, Gross Unrealized Gain (Loss)	2,849,000	1,474,000
Total marketable securities and other investments, Carrying Value	190,004,000	139,189,000
Proceeds from sale of available-for-sale securities	35,500,000	30,500,000	$ 3,300,000
Gain on sale of available-for-sale securities	1,900,000	5,700,000	0
Sale of other investments	0	0	5,600,000
Gain on sale of other investments			600,000
Capitalization Policy [Abstract]
Capitalized internal costs related to development and redevelopment projects	20,300,000	18,500,000	17,600,000
Fair Value of Financial Instruments [Abstract]
Fixed rate debt carrying amount	4,900,000,000	5,100,000,000
Fixed rate debt fair value	5,000,000,000	5,100,000,000
Variable rate debt, carrying amount	792,900,000	499,700,000
Variable rate debt fair value	793,900,000	502,800,000
Mortgage backed securities fair value	120,700,000	$ 108,800,000
Investments, Owned, Federal Income Tax Note [Line Items]
Number of properties disposed | property		2
Deferred tax expense on gain on sale of real estate and land	0	$ 4,410,000	0
Tax act, deferred tax liability, net tax benefit	1,500,000
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Stockholders' equity, beginning balance	6,192,178,000
Other comprehensive income before reclassification	27,810,000
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss	(14,158,000)
Other comprehensive income	13,652,000
Stockholders' equity, ending balance	$ 6,277,406,000	6,192,178,000
Number of consolidated co-investments that now meet the definition of a VIE | investment	8
Number of DownREIT limited partnerships the company consolidates | partnership	16
Number of communities within the DownREIT partnership | community	8
Assets related to variable interest entities, net intercompany eliminations	$ 837,700,000	746,100,000
Liabilities related to variable interest entities, net of intercompany eliminations	265,500,000	221,300,000
Noncontrolling interests in VIEs	$ 66,700,000	$ 45,400,000
Total DownREIT units outstanding (in shares) | shares	917,593	952,140
Redemption value of the variable interest entities	$ 221,500,000	$ 221,400,000
Redeemable noncontrolling interest	39,206,000	44,684,000	$ 45,452,000	$ 23,256,000
Noncontrolling interest in limited partnerships	$ 32,400,000	18,600,000
Computer software and equipment [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Depreciable life of various categories of fixed assets [Abstract]
Depreciable life, average	3 years
Computer software and equipment [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Depreciable life of various categories of fixed assets [Abstract]
Depreciable life, average	5 years
Interior apartment home improvements [Member]
Depreciable life of various categories of fixed assets [Abstract]
Depreciable life, average	5 years
Furniture, fixtures and equipment [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Depreciable life of various categories of fixed assets [Abstract]
Depreciable life, average	5 years
Furniture, fixtures and equipment [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Depreciable life of various categories of fixed assets [Abstract]
Depreciable life, average	10 years
Land improvements and certain exterior components of real property [Member]
Depreciable life of various categories of fixed assets [Abstract]
Depreciable life, average	10 years
Real estate structures [Member]
Depreciable life of various categories of fixed assets [Abstract]
Depreciable life, average	30 years
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Stockholders' equity, beginning balance	$ (32,098,000)
Stockholders' equity, ending balance	(18,446,000)	(32,098,000)
Change in Fair Value and Amortization of Swap Settlements [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Stockholders' equity, beginning balance	(32,963,000)
Other comprehensive income before reclassification	24,634,000
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss	(12,312,000)
Other comprehensive income	12,322,000
Stockholders' equity, ending balance	(20,641,000)	(32,963,000)
Unrealized Gains on Available-for-Sale Securities [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Stockholders' equity, beginning balance	865,000
Other comprehensive income before reclassification	3,176,000
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss	(1,846,000)
Other comprehensive income	1,330,000
Stockholders' equity, ending balance	2,195,000	865,000
Investment-grade unsecured bonds [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Available for sale - Amortized Cost	4,365,000
Available for sale - Gross Unrealized Gain (Loss)	(40,000)
Available for sale - Carrying Value	4,325,000
Investment funds - debt securities [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Available for sale - Amortized Cost	27,914,000	19,604,000
Available for sale - Gross Unrealized Gain (Loss)	(29,000)	(73,000)
Available for sale - Carrying Value	27,885,000	19,531,000
Investment funds - U.S. treasuries [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Available for sale - Amortized Cost	10,999,000	10,022,000
Available for sale - Gross Unrealized Gain (Loss)	(55,000)	(22,000)
Available for sale - Carrying Value	10,944,000	10,000,000
Common stock and stock funds [Member]
Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract]
Available for sale - Amortized Cost	34,329,000	13,696,000
Available for sale - Gross Unrealized Gain (Loss)	2,973,000	1,569,000
Available for sale - Carrying Value	37,302,000	15,265,000
Mortgage backed securities [Member]
Held-to-maturity Securities [Abstract]
Held to maturity - Amortized Cost	109,548,000	94,393,000
Held to maturity - Gross Unrealized Gain (Loss)	0	0
Held to maturity - Carrying Value	$ 109,548,000	$ 94,393,000
Common stock and stock funds [Member]
Status of cash dividends distributed [Abstract]
Ordinary income	84.04%	86.68%	99.28%
Capital gains	13.20%	7.11%	0.72%
Unrecaptured section 1250 capital gain	2.76%	6.21%	0.00%
Total cash dividends distributed	100.00%	100.00%	100.00%
Series H Preferred Stock [Member]
Status of cash dividends distributed [Abstract]
Ordinary income	0.00%	86.68%	99.28%
Capital gains	0.00%	7.11%	0.72%
Unrecaptured section 1250 capital gain	0.00%	6.21%	0.00%
Total cash dividends distributed	0.00%	100.00%	100.00%
Difference between Revenue Guidance in Effect before and after Topic 606 [Member] | Pro Forma [Member] | Accounting Standards Update 2017-05 [Member] | Retained Earnings [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Cumulative adjustment to retained earnings		$ 123,700,000
Essex Portfolio, L.P. [Member]
Investments, Owned, Federal Income Tax Note [Line Items]
Deferred tax expense on gain on sale of real estate and land	$ 0	4,410,000	$ 0
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Other comprehensive income before reclassification	28,761,000
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss	(14,642,000)
Other comprehensive income	14,119,000
Redeemable noncontrolling interest	39,206,000	44,684,000
Essex Portfolio, L.P. [Member] | Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Stockholders' equity, beginning balance	(29,348,000)
Stockholders' equity, ending balance	(15,229,000)	(29,348,000)
Essex Portfolio, L.P. [Member] | Change in Fair Value and Amortization of Swap Settlements [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Stockholders' equity, beginning balance	(30,161,000)
Other comprehensive income before reclassification	25,477,000
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss	(12,733,000)
Other comprehensive income	12,744,000
Stockholders' equity, ending balance	(17,417,000)	(30,161,000)
Essex Portfolio, L.P. [Member] | Unrealized Gains on Available-for-Sale Securities [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Stockholders' equity, beginning balance	813,000
Other comprehensive income before reclassification	3,284,000
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss	(1,909,000)
Other comprehensive income	1,375,000
Stockholders' equity, ending balance	$ 2,188,000	$ 813,000

Summary of Critical and Signi41

Summary of Critical and Significant Accounting Policies Summary of Critical and Significant Accounting Policies - Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Roll Forward]
Balance at January 1,	$ 44,684	$ 45,452	$ 23,256
Reclassifications due to change in redemption value and other	65	(768)	22,196
Redemptions	(5,543)	0	0
Balance at December 31,	$ 39,206	$ 44,684	$ 45,452

Real Estate Investments Real Es

Real Estate Investments Real Estate Investments - Acquisitions And Sales Of Real Estate (Details) $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended		3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017USD ($)unit	Jan. 31, 2017USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2017USD ($)unit	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)communityunit	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)communityunit	Dec. 31, 2010
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Number of units acquired | unit				1,328
Purchase Price				$ 273,000
Limited partnership interest in partnership investments						3.00%
Co-investments				1,155,984	$ 1,161,275
Land and Land Improvements [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Purchase Price				169,500
Building and Improvements [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Purchase Price				365,700
Prepaid Expenses and Other Assets [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Purchase Price				$ 3,200
Membership Interest In Palm Valley [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Number of units acquired | unit			1,098
Purchase Price		$ 183,000	$ 183,000
Essex Ownership Percentage	100.00%		100.00%
Limited partnership interest in partnership investments		50.00%		50.00%
Co-investments		$ 183,000
Encumberance of mortgage debt					$ 220,000
Membership Interest In Sage At Cupertino [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Number of units acquired | unit	230		230
Purchase Price	$ 90,000		$ 90,000
Essex Ownership Percentage	40.50%		40.50%
Co-investments	$ 15,300		$ 15,300
Encumberance of mortgage debt	$ 52,000		$ 52,000
Apartment Building [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Number of communities acquired | community				2	4
Number of units acquired | unit				1,328	753
Purchase Price				$ 273,000	$ 333,700

Real Estate Investments - Sales

Real Estate Investments - Sales of Real Estate Investments (Details) $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended		3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2016USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2015USD ($)community	Mar. 31, 2017USD ($)unit	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)communityunit	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)communityunit	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)communityunit
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Number of communities sold | community				1	3	2
Number of units sold | unit				270	323	848
Sales Price				$ 132,500	$ 80,800	$ 308,800
Gain on sale of properties				26,200	14,000	44,900
Gain on sale of real estate				26,200
Deferred tax expense on gain on sale of real estate and land				$ 0	4,410	$ 0
Palo Alto, CA [Member]
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Proceeds from sale of headquarters building	$ 18,000
Palo Alto, CA [Member] | Apartment Building [Member]
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Gain on sale of corporate headquarters	$ 9,600
Emeryville, CA [Member]
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Number of communities sold | community		2
Sales Price		$ 13,000
Gain on sale of properties		$ 2,400
Jefferson at Hollywood [Member]
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Number of units sold | unit			270
Sales Price			$ 132,500
Essex Ownership Percentage			100.00%
Gain on sale of real estate			$ 26,200
Jefferson at Hollywood [Member] | Apartment Building [Member]
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Carrying value of real estate assets held-for-sale					$ 102,000
Jefferson at Hollywood [Member] | Apartment Building [Member] | Disposal Group, Held-for-sale, Not Discontinued Operations [Member]
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Number of units in real estate property | unit					270

Real Estate Investments - Co-In

Real Estate Investments - Co-Investments (Details) $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended						3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)communityunit	Nov. 30, 2017USD ($)apartment	Oct. 31, 2017USD ($)	Aug. 31, 2017USD ($)apartment	Mar. 31, 2017USD ($)unit	Jan. 31, 2017USD ($)communityunit	Mar. 31, 2017USD ($)unit	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)communityunit	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)communityunit	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)communityunit	Dec. 31, 2010
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Ownership Percentage											3.00%
Number of apartment communities owned | community	247							247
Gain on remeasurement of co-investment								$ 88,641	$ 0	$ 34,014
Purchase Price								$ 273,000
Number of units sold | unit								270	323	848
Sales Price								$ 132,500	$ 80,800	$ 308,800
Gain on sale of properties								26,200	14,000	44,900
Investments in (distributions in excess of investments in) and advance to affiliates, subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures	$ 1,119,258							$ 1,119,258	1,161,275
Number of units acquired | unit								1,328
Acquisitions of real estate and acquisition related capital expenditures								$ 206,194	$ 315,632	$ 515,726
Number of communities sold | community								1	3	2
Gain on sale of real estate and land								$ 26,423	$ 154,561	$ 47,333
Rental properties and real estate under development	355,735							355,735	190,505
Other liabilities	33,132							33,132	32,922
Gain on sale of real estate								26,200
Interest expense								(222,894)	(219,654)	(204,827)
General and administrative								(41,385)	(40,751)	(40,090)
Equity income from co-investments								86,445	48,698	21,861
Investments With Related Parties [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Equity income from co-investments								1,900	3,400	3,700
Secured Note Receivable, 3.5% Interest Rate, Due December 16, 2017 [Member] | Affiliated Entity [Member] | Wesco V Property [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Notes receivable, related parties				$ 55,000
Notes receivable, related party, interest rate				3.50%
BEXAWE, LLC [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Repayments of debt	$ 66,200
Number of communities sold | community	2
Proceeds from sale of real estate	$ 160,300
Gain on sale of real estate and land	34,800
Membership Interest In Sage At Cupertino [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Encumberance of mortgage debt					$ 52,000		$ 52,000
Number of units in real estate property | unit					230		230
Essex Ownership Percentage					40.50%		40.50%
Purchase Price					$ 90,000		$ 90,000
Number of units acquired | unit					230		230
Madrid In Mission Viejo [Member] | Wesco I [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Number of units sold | apartment				230
Sales Price				$ 83,000
Gain on sale of properties				10,100
Repayments of debt				$ 30,100
Wesco V Property [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Ownership Percentage				50.00%
Investments in (distributions in excess of investments in) and advance to affiliates, subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures				$ 150,000
Eighth And Republican Avenue Property [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Number of units acquired | apartment				211
Acquisitions of real estate and acquisition related capital expenditures				$ 101,300
Wesco V, San Jose Apartment Community [Member] | Wesco V Property [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Number of units acquired | apartment				213
Asset acquisition, consideration transferred				$ 133,500
Asset acquisition, liabilities assumed				$ 57,900
Asset acquisition, liabilities assumed, effective interest rate				3.40%
Wesco I [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Ownership Percentage			58.00%
Promote interest earned			$ 38,000
Village At Toluca Lake [Member] | Affiliated Entity [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Notes receivable, related parties		$ 29,500
Notes receivable, related party, interest rate		3.50%
Village At Toluca Lake [Member] | BEX III [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Number of units acquired | apartment		145
Acquisitions of real estate and acquisition related capital expenditures		$ 59,000
Total operating co investments [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Investments in (distributions in excess of investments in) and advance to affiliates, subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures	$ 780,332							$ 780,332	$ 781,905
Number of apartments owned through joint ventures | unit	10,810							10,810	11,274
CPPIB [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Ownership Percentage								54.00%
Investments in (distributions in excess of investments in) and advance to affiliates, subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures	$ 500,287							$ 500,287	$ 422,068
Wesco I, III, and IV [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Ownership Percentage								53.00%
Investments in (distributions in excess of investments in) and advance to affiliates, subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures	214,408							$ 214,408	180,687
Palm Valley [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Ownership Percentage						50.00%		50.00%
Encumberance of mortgage debt									220,000
Number of units in real estate property | unit						1,098
Number of apartment communities owned | community						4
Gain on remeasurement of co-investment						$ 88,600
Essex Ownership Percentage					100.00%		100.00%
Purchase Price						$ 183,000	$ 183,000
Investments in (distributions in excess of investments in) and advance to affiliates, subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures	0							$ 0	68,396
Number of units acquired | unit							1,098
BEXAEW, BEXII and BEX III [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Ownership Percentage								50.00%
Investments in (distributions in excess of investments in) and advance to affiliates, subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures	13,827							$ 13,827	67,041
BEX II [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Investments in (distributions in excess of investments in) and advance to affiliates, subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures	(36,700)							$ (36,700)
BEX III [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Ownership Percentage		50.00%
Other [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Ownership Percentage								52.00%
Investments in (distributions in excess of investments in) and advance to affiliates, subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures	51,810							$ 51,810	43,713
Total development co investments [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Ownership Percentage								50.00%
Investments in (distributions in excess of investments in) and advance to affiliates, subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures	$ 73,770							$ 73,770	$ 157,317
Number of apartments owned through joint ventures | unit	814							814	1,427
Total preferred interest investments [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Investments in (distributions in excess of investments in) and advance to affiliates, subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures	$ 265,156							$ 265,156	$ 222,053
Total preferred interest investments [Member] | Investments in Majority-owned Subsidiaries [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Investments in (distributions in excess of investments in) and advance to affiliates, subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures	15,700							15,700	35,800
Total co investment [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Rental properties and real estate under development	3,722,778							3,722,778	3,807,245
Other assets	110,333							110,333	121,505
Total assets	3,833,111							3,833,111	3,928,750
Debt	1,705,051							1,705,051	1,617,639
Other liabilities	45,515							45,515	74,607
Equity	2,082,545							2,082,545	2,236,504
Total liabilities and equity	3,833,111							3,833,111	3,928,750
Company's share of equity	$ 1,155,984							1,155,984	1,161,275
Property revenues								312,841	289,011	260,175
Property operating expenses								(110,583)	(99,637)	(93,067)
Net operating income								202,258	189,374	167,108
Gain on sale of real estate								90,663	28,291	14
Interest expense								(62,844)	(46,894)	(44,834)
General and administrative								(9,091)	(7,448)	(5,879)
Depreciation and amortization								(118,048)	(103,986)	(103,613)
Net income								102,938	59,337	12,796
Company's share of net income								$ 86,445	$ 48,698	$ 21,861

Real Estate Investments - Devel

Real Estate Investments - Development Co-Investments (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)unit	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)unit	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)unit
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Co-investment	$ 1,155,984	$ 1,161,275
Investments in (distributions in excess of investments in) and advance to affiliates, subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures	$ 1,119,258	$ 1,161,275
Number of units to be developed | unit	1,982
Minimum [Member]
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Annualized preferred return rate	9.50%	10.00%
Maximum [Member]
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Annualized preferred return rate	11.30%	12.00%
Total development co investments [Member]
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Number of apartments owned through joint ventures | unit	814	1,427
Investments in (distributions in excess of investments in) and advance to affiliates, subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures	$ 73,770	$ 157,317
Ohlone Multi-family Community [Member]
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Equity method investment, ownership percentage	50.00%
Number of units to be developed | unit	269
Estimated cost active development projects	$ 136,000
Commitment to fund preferred equity investment in the project	$ 28,900
Annualized preferred return rate	10.00%
Folsom 500 [Member]
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Equity method investment, ownership percentage			50.00%
Number of units to be developed | unit			545
Estimated cost active development projects			$ 415,000

Real Estate Investments - Prefe

Real Estate Investments - Preferred Equity Investments and Real Estate Under Development (Details) $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended			12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2017USD ($)	Aug. 31, 2017USD ($)	Apr. 30, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)investmentproject	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)investment	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017investment	Dec. 31, 2017unit	Dec. 31, 2017project
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Co-investment				$ 1,155,984	$ 1,161,275
Number of investments with a commitment to fund | investment					5
Equity method investment, funded amount					$ 116,100
Non-operating distributions from co-investments				162,439	76,231	$ 31,938
Gain on disposal of equity method investment				$ 44,837	$ 13,046	$ 0
Full redemption of a preferred equity investment	$ 5,000	$ 11,700
Number of development projects | project				5
Ownership interests, number of active development projects							2		7
Number of units to be developed | unit								1,982
Real Estate predevelopment projects [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Actual cost of active development projects				$ 557,000
Minimum [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Annualized preferred return rate				9.50%	10.00%
Maximum [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Annualized preferred return rate				11.30%	12.00%
Equity Method Investments [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Commitment to fund preferred equity investment in the project				$ 153,800
Number of investments with a commitment to fund | investment				8
Equity method investment, funded amount				$ 77,500
Total preferred interest investments [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Co-investment				265,200	$ 222,100
Preferred Equity Investment In A Joint Venture That Holds A Property In Seattle, Washington [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Non-operating distributions from co-investments			$ 12,600
Reduction in preferred equity method			(12,400)
Gain on disposal of equity method investment			$ 300
Preferred Equity Investment In Joint Venture That Holds A Property In San Jose, CA [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Partial redemption of equity method investment		$ 6,900
Equity method investments				$ 13,400
Preferred Equity Investment In A Joint Venture That Holds A Property In Concord, CA [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Full redemption of a preferred equity investment	5,100
Proceeds from early redemption fee	$ 100

Notes and Other Receivables (De

Notes and Other Receivables (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Notes receivable	$ 100,926	$ 40,970
Note receivable, secured, bearing interest at 10.00% due May 2021 [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Notes receivable	$ 13,762	0
Stated interest rate (in hundredths)	10.00%
Note receivable, secured, bearing interest at 10.75%, due December 2020 [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Notes receivable	$ 29,318	17,685
Stated interest rate (in hundredths)	10.75%
Related party note receivable, secured, bearing interest at 9.5%, due October 2019 [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Notes receivable	$ 6,656	6,593
Stated interest rate (in hundredths)	9.50%
Secured Note Receivable, 3.5% Interest Rate, Due December 16, 2017 [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Notes receivable	$ 29,500	0
Stated interest rate (in hundredths)	3.50%
Notes and other receivables from affiliates [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Notes receivable	$ 5,061	4,695
Other receivables [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Notes receivable	$ 16,629	$ 11,997

Related Party Transactions (Det

Related Party Transactions (Details)	1 Months Ended					3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2017USD ($)	Aug. 31, 2017USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2017USD ($)unit	Mar. 31, 2015USD ($)	Jan. 31, 2013USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2017USD ($)unit	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)investmentunit	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)investment	Dec. 31, 2010USD ($)	Nov. 30, 2016USD ($)
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Management and other fees from affiliates							$ 12,600,000	$ 12,400,000	$ 15,600,000
Revenues from development and redevelopment fees							3,000,000	4,200,000	6,700,000
Notes and other receivables (includes related party receivables of $41.2 million and $11.3 million as of December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively)							100,926,000	40,970,000
Co-investments							$ 1,155,984,000	1,161,275,000
Number of units acquired | unit							1,328
Encumbrance							$ 2,008,417,000
Payments to acquire equity method investments							293,363,000	183,989,000	127,879,000
Redeemed equity method investment							$ 5,000,000
Number of equity method investments scheduled to mature | investment							2
Gain on disposal of equity method investment							$ 44,837,000	13,046,000	0
Related party transaction, amount of transaction										$ 4,000,000
Limited partnership interest in partnership investments										3.00%
Membership Interest In Sage At Cupertino [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Co-investments			$ 15,300,000			$ 15,300,000
Number of units acquired | unit			230			230
Equity method investment, ownership percentage			40.50%
Contract price			$ 90,000,000
Encumbrance			$ 52,000,000			$ 52,000,000
Notes And Other Receivables From Affiliates [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Notes and other receivables (includes related party receivables of $41.2 million and $11.3 million as of December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively)							5,100,000	4,700,000
Related party note receivable, secured, bearing interest at 9.5%, due October 2019 [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Notes and other receivables (includes related party receivables of $41.2 million and $11.3 million as of December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively)							6,656,000	6,593,000
Secured Note Receivable, 3.5% Interest Rate, Due December 16, 2017 [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Notes and other receivables (includes related party receivables of $41.2 million and $11.3 million as of December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively)							29,500,000	0
Marcus and Millichamp Company TMMC Affiliate [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Preferred equity interest investment in a related party entity					$ 8,600,000
Gain on disposal of equity method investment				$ 500,000
Marcus and Millichamp Company TMMC Affiliate [Member] | Related party note receivable, secured, bearing interest at 9.5%, due October 2019 [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Notes and other receivables (includes related party receivables of $41.2 million and $11.3 million as of December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively)											$ 6,600,000
Marcus and Millichamp Company TMMC Affiliate [Member] | Disposition Of Multi-family Properties [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Payments for brokerage fees							0	1,100,000	0
Limited Liability Company [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Payments to acquire equity method investments									$ 20,000,000
Number of equity method investments acquired during the period | investment									3
Cumulative dividend rate (in hundredths)									9.50%
Limited Liability Company [Member] | Related party note receivable, secured, bearing interest at 9.5%, due October 2019 [Member] | Marcus and Millichamp Company TMMC Affiliate [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Notes receivable, related parties							6,700,000	$ 6,600,000
Affiliated Entity [Member] | Secured Note Receivable, 3.5% Interest Rate, Due December 16, 2017 [Member] | Wesco V Property [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Notes receivable, related parties		$ 55,000,000
Notes receivable, related party, interest rate		3.50%
Affiliated Entity [Member] | Secured Note Receivable, 3.5% Interest Rate, Due March 9, 2018 [Member] | BEX III [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Notes and other receivables (includes related party receivables of $41.2 million and $11.3 million as of December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively)							$ 29,500,000
Notes receivable, related parties	$ 29,500,000
Notes receivable, related party, interest rate	3.50%

Unsecured Debt - Summary (Detai

Unsecured Debt - Summary (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Nov. 30, 2016	Oct. 31, 2016
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Unsecured debt, net	$ 3,501,709	$ 3,246,779
Lines of credit	179,000	125,000
Total unsecured debt	3,680,709	3,371,779
Unsecured bonds, private placement [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Unsecured debt, net	$ 274,427	314,190
Debt instruments, maturity period	3 years 1 month 15 days
Variable rate term loan [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Unsecured debt, net		$ 100,000	$ 350,000	$ 225,000
Weighted average interest rate	2.50%	2.30%
Debt instruments, maturity period	49 months 15 days
Variable rate term loan [Member] | Carrying Value [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Unsecured debt, net	$ 348,545	$ 98,189
Bonds public offering - fixed rate [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Unsecured debt, net	$ 2,878,737	$ 2,834,400
Weighted average interest rate	3.70%	3.60%
Debt instruments, maturity period	6 years 4 months 15 days
Unsecured Line of Credit [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Lines of credit	$ 179,000	$ 125,000
Weighted average interest rate	2.30%	1.80%

Unsecured Debt - Unsecured Priv

Unsecured Debt - Unsecured Private Placement Bonds (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior notes	$ 275,000	$ 315,000
Unsecured Bonds 4.50% [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Maturity date	Sep. 30, 2017
Senior notes	$ 0	40,000
Coupon Rate	4.50%
Unsecured Bonds 4.92 % [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Maturity date	Dec. 31, 2019
Senior notes	$ 75,000	75,000
Coupon Rate	4.92%
Unsecured Bonds 4.27% [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Maturity date	Apr. 30, 2021
Senior notes	$ 100,000	100,000
Coupon Rate	4.27%
Unsecured Bonds 4.30% [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Maturity date	Jun. 30, 2021
Senior notes	$ 50,000	50,000
Coupon Rate	4.30%
Unsecured Bonds 4.37% [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Maturity date	Aug. 31, 2021
Senior notes	$ 50,000	$ 50,000
Coupon Rate	4.37%

Unsecured Debt - Senior Unsecur

Unsecured Debt - Senior Unsecured Notes (Details) - USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017	Apr. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Apr. 30, 2014	Apr. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, face amount	$ 2,900,000,000		$ 2,850,000,000
Unsecured Bonds 5.500% [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, face amount	$ 0		300,000,000
Unsecured Bonds 5.500% [Member] | Senior Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate, stated percentage	5.50%			5.50%
Unsecured Bonds 5.200% [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, face amount	$ 300,000,000		300,000,000
Unsecured Bonds 5.200% [Member] | Senior Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate, stated percentage	5.20%
Unsecured Bonds 3.625% [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, face amount	$ 300,000,000		300,000,000
Unsecured Bonds 3.625% [Member] | Senior Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate, stated percentage	3.625%					3.625%
Unsecured Bonds 3.375% [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, face amount	$ 300,000,000		300,000,000
Unsecured Bonds 3.375% [Member] | Senior Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate, stated percentage	3.375%
Unsecured Bonds 3.25% [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, face amount	$ 300,000,000		300,000,000
Unsecured Bonds 3.25% [Member] | Senior Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate, stated percentage	3.25%				3.25%
Unsecured Bonds 3.875% [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, face amount	$ 400,000,000		400,000,000
Unsecured Bonds 3.875% [Member] | Senior Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, face amount				$ 400,000,000
Interest rate, stated percentage	3.875%			3.875%
Unsecured Bonds 3.500% [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, face amount	$ 500,000,000		500,000,000
Unsecured Bonds 3.500% [Member] | Senior Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate, stated percentage	3.50%
Unsecured Bonds 3.375% [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, face amount	$ 450,000,000		450,000,000
Unsecured Bonds 3.375% [Member] | Senior Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate, stated percentage	3.375%
Unsecured Bonds 3.625% [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, face amount	$ 350,000,000		$ 0
Unsecured Bonds 3.625% [Member] | Senior Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, face amount		$ 350,000,000
Interest rate, stated percentage	3.625%

Unsecured Debt - Future Obligat

Unsecured Debt - Future Obligations (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total Debt	$ 2,008,417	$ 2,191,481
Unsecured Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
2,018	0
2,019	75,000
2,020	0
2,021	500,000
2,022	650,000
Thereafter	2,300,000
Total Debt	$ 3,525,000

Unsecured Debt - Narrative (Det

Unsecured Debt - Narrative (Details)

1 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

Jan. 31, 2018USD ($)extension

Apr. 30, 2013USD ($)

Sep. 30, 2012USD ($)

Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)extensionline_of_creditinstrument

Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)

Apr. 30, 2017USD ($)

Mar. 31, 2017USD ($)

Nov. 30, 2016USD ($)

Oct. 31, 2016USD ($)

Apr. 30, 2016

Mar. 31, 2015USD ($)

Apr. 30, 2014USD ($)

Apr. 01, 2014USD ($)

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Unamortized debt issuance expense

$ 5,400,000

$ 7,400,000

Number of outstanding lines of credit | line_of_credit

2

Senior notes

$ 275,000,000

$ 315,000,000

Effective interest rate

4.50%

4.50%

Unsecured debt, net

$ 3,501,709,000

$ 3,246,779,000

Debt instrument, face amount

2,900,000,000

2,850,000,000

Lines of credit

179,000,000

125,000,000

Unsecured Line of Credit [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Lines of credit

179,000,000

Unsecured Bonds 3.625% [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Debt instrument, face amount

350,000,000

0

Unsecured Bonds 3.375%, Due April 2026 [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Debt instrument, face amount

450,000,000

450,000,000

Unsecured Bonds 5.500% [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Debt instrument, face amount

0

300,000,000

Unsecured Bonds 5.200% [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Debt instrument, face amount

300,000,000

300,000,000

Unsecured Bonds 3.375% [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Debt instrument, face amount

300,000,000

300,000,000

Unsecured Bonds 3.875% [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Debt instrument, face amount

400,000,000

400,000,000

Unsecured Bonds 3.25% [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Debt instrument, face amount

300,000,000

300,000,000

Unsecured Bonds 3.625% [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Debt instrument, face amount

300,000,000

300,000,000

Unsecured Debt [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Debt instrument, unamortized premium

5,200,000

100,000

Unamortized debt issuance expense

18,100,000

18,100,000

Unsecured Debt [Member] | Senior Unsecured Notes Maturing April 1, 2025 [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Senior notes

495,900,000

495,400,000

Debt instrument, face amount

$ 500,000,000

Interest rate, stated percentage

3.50%

Debt offering price

99.747%

Line of Credit [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Maximum borrowing capacity

1,030,000,000

Line of Credit [Member] | Unsecured Line of Credit [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Unamortized debt issuance expense

3,200,000

3,300,000

Lines of credit

$ 179,000,000

$ 125,000,000

Unsecured Line of Credit [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Weighted average interest rate

2.30%

1.80%

Lines of credit

$ 179,000,000

$ 125,000,000

Unsecured Line of Credit [Member] | Line of Credit [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Maximum borrowing capacity

$ 1,000,000,000

Number of extension options | extension

1

Term extension period

18 months

Unsecured Line of Credit [Member] | Line of Credit [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Maximum borrowing capacity

$ 1,200,000,000

Number of extension options | extension

1

Term extension period

18 months

Unsecured Line of Credit [Member] | Line of Credit [Member] | London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Basis spread on rate

0.90%

Unsecured Line of Credit [Member] | Line of Credit [Member] | London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Basis spread on rate

0.875%

Unsecured Line of Credit [Member] | Line of Credit Working Capital [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Maximum borrowing capacity

$ 25,000,000

Lines of credit

$ 0

0

Unsecured Line of Credit [Member] | Line of Credit Working Capital [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Maximum borrowing capacity

$ 35,000,000

Unsecured Line of Credit [Member] | Line of Credit Working Capital [Member] | London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Basis spread on rate

0.90%

Variable rate term loan [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Unsecured debt, net

$ 100,000,000

$ 350,000,000

$ 225,000,000

Weighted average interest rate

2.50%

2.30%

Derivative, notional amount

$ 175,000,000

Basis spread on rate

0.95%

Variable rate term loan [Member] | Carrying Value [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Unsecured debt, net

$ 348,545,000

$ 98,189,000

Variable rate term loan [Member] | Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Unsecured debt, net

$ 350,000,000

Number of derivative instruments held | instrument

5

Term of loan

5 years

Variable rate term loan [Member] | Variable Term Loan, Tranche One [Member] | Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Derivative, notional amount

$ 175,000,000

Derivative, fixed interest rate

2.30%

Senior Notes [Member] | BRE Properties, Inc. [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Unsecured debt, net

$ 603,200,000

907,100,000

Long-term debt acquired

$ 900,000,000

Senior Notes [Member] | Unsecured Bonds 3.625% [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Unsecured debt, net

$ 345,200,000

Debt instrument, face amount

$ 350,000,000

Interest rate, stated percentage

3.625%

Debt offering price

99.423%

Senior Notes [Member] | Unsecured Bonds 3.375%, Due April 2026 [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Unsecured debt, net

$ 444,400,000

443,700,000

Interest rate, stated percentage

3.375%

Debt offering price

99.386%

Senior Notes [Member] | Unsecured Bonds 5.500% [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Interest rate, stated percentage

5.50%

5.50%

Face amount of debt paid off

$ 300,000,000

Senior Notes [Member] | Unsecured Bonds 5.200% [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Interest rate, stated percentage

5.20%

Senior Notes [Member] | Unsecured Bonds 3.375% [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Interest rate, stated percentage

3.375%

Senior Notes [Member] | Unsecured Bonds 3.875% [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Unsecured debt, net

$ 395,800,000

395,100,000

Debt instrument, face amount

$ 400,000,000

Interest rate, stated percentage

3.875%

3.875%

Debt offering price

99.234%

Senior Notes [Member] | Unsecured Bonds 3.25% [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Interest rate, stated percentage

3.25%

3.25%

Debt offering price

99.152%

Proceeds from issuance of unsecured debt

$ 300,000,000

Long-term debt, gross

$ 297,000,000

296,500,000

Senior Notes [Member] | Unsecured Bonds 3.625% [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Interest rate, stated percentage

3.625%

3.625%

Debt offering price

98.99%

Proceeds from issuance of unsecured debt

$ 300,000,000

Long-term debt, gross

$ 297,200,000

$ 296,600,000

Mortgage Notes Payable (Details

Mortgage Notes Payable (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)property	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)property
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Mortgage notes payable	$ 2,008,417,000	$ 2,191,481,000
Number of properties securing mortgage notes | property	56	61
Weighted average interest rate (in hundredths)	4.20%	4.30%
Unamortized debt issuance expense	$ 5,400,000	$ 7,400,000
Monthly interest expense	7,000,000
Monthly principal amortization	2,500,000
Mortgage notes payable, net	$ 2,008,417,000	$ 2,191,481,000
Repayment of debt before the scheduled maturity date, prepayment penalties	The prepayment penalty on the majority of the Company’s mortgage notes payable are computed by the greater of (a) 1% of the amount of the principal being prepaid or (b) the present value of the mortgage note payable which is calculated by multiplying the principal being prepaid by the difference between the interest rate of the mortgage note and the stated yield rate on a specified U.S. treasury security as defined in the mortgage note agreement.
Minimum [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Remaining terms	1 year	1 year
Maximum [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Remaining terms	29 years	30 years
Fixed rate mortgage notes payable [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Mortgage notes payable	$ 1,739,856,000	$ 1,911,699,000
Prepayment penalty, percent of principal prepaid	1.00%
Variable rate mortgage notes payable [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Mortgage notes payable	$ 268,561,000	$ 279,782,000
Bond subject to interest rate caps	$ 256,600,000
Multifamily housing mortgage revenue bonds, variable interest rate (in hundredths)	2.00%	1.20%
Percentage of units subject to tenant income criteria (in hundredths)	20.00%
Variable rate mortgage notes payable [Member] | Total Return Swap [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Bond subject to interest rate caps	$ 20,700,000
Secured Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Mortgage notes payable	1,980,561,000
Debt instrument, unamortized premium	33,200,000	$ 50,800,000
Secured Deeds of Trust [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Mortgage notes payable, net	$ 0	$ 0

Mortgage Notes Payable - Future

Mortgage Notes Payable - Future Maturities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total Debt	$ 2,008,417	$ 2,191,481
Secured Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
2,018	202,131
2,019	560,389
2,020	694,921
2,021	44,846
2,022	42,466
Thereafter	435,808
Total Debt	$ 1,980,561

Derivative Instruments and He56

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities (Details)	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2016USD ($)instrument	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)instrument	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)instrument	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Oct. 31, 2016USD ($)
Derivative [Line Items]
Unsecured debt, net		$ 3,501,709,000	$ 3,246,779,000
Total return swap income		10,098,000	11,716,000	$ 5,655,000
Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Hedge ineffectiveness related to cash flow hedges		$ 100,000	$ 300,000	0
Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Interest Rate Swap [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Number of derivative instruments held | instrument	4	5	1
Average fixed interest rate		2.30%
Derivative, fair value		$ 5,400,000	$ 4,400,000
Aggregate carrying value of the interest rate swap contracts		0	30,000
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Total return swap income		10,100,000	11,700,000	$ 5,700,000
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Interest Rate Cap [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, notional amount		20,700,000
Derivative, fair value		0	0
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Total Return Swap [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, fair value		0
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Total Return Swap [Callable]
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, notional amount		$ 256,624,000
Variable rate term loan [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Unsecured debt, net	$ 350,000,000		$ 100,000,000		$ 225,000,000
Debt instrument, term	5 years
Basis spread on rate		0.95%
Derivative, notional amount		$ 175,000,000
Variable rate term loan [Member] | Interest Rate Swap [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Unsecured debt, net		$ 350,000,000
Number of derivative instruments held | instrument		5

Lease Agreements (Details)

Lease Agreements (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)communitybuilding
Leases [Abstract]
Number of commercial buildings leased | building	1
Number of commercial portions of mixed use communities leased | community	37
Future minimum non-cancelable base rent under operating leases [Abstract]
2,018	$ 13,791
2,019	13,257
2,020	12,392
2,021	10,745
2,022	9,486
Thereafter	28,454
Total future minimum rent	$ 88,125

Equity Transactions (Details)

Equity Transactions (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Excess of redemption value of preferred stock over the carrying value		$ 0	$ 2,541	$ 0
Sale of common stock, net (in shares)		345,444	0
Share issued, price per share (in dollars per share)		$ 260.38
Proceeds from issuance from common stock		$ 89,055	$ (384)	$ 332,137
General partner ownership interest		96.70%	96.70%
Redemption value of operating partnership units outstanding		$ 547,500	$ 520,200
Series H 7.125% Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Shares outstanding (in shares)	2,950,000
Cumulative dividend rate (in hundredths)	7.125%
Liquidation preference (in dollars per share)	$ 25
Liquidation preference	$ 73,800
Excess of redemption value of preferred stock over the carrying value	$ 2,500
Operating Partnership Units [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Shares outstanding (in shares)		2,054,814	2,056,263
Long Term Incentive Plan 2014 Units [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Shares outstanding (in shares)		213,299	181,027
Long Term Incentive Plan Z Units and LTIP Units [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Converted (in shares)		0	0	0

Net Income Per Common Share a59

Net Income Per Common Share and Net Income Per Common Unit (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Basic:
Net income available to common stockholders	$ 433,059	$ 411,124	$ 226,865
Income from continuing operations available to common stockholders (in shares)	65,829,155	65,471,540	64,871,717
Income from continuing operations available to common stockholders (in dollars per share)	$ 6.58	$ 6.28	$ 3.50
Diluted:
Income from continuing operations available to common stockholders	$ 433,059	$ 411,124	$ 226,865
Income from continuing operations available to common stockholders (in shares)	65,898,255	65,587,816	65,061,685
Income from continuing operations available to common stockholders (in dollars per share)	$ 6.57	$ 6.27	$ 3.49
Convertible Limited Partnership Units [Member]
Diluted:
Anti-dilutive securities (in shares)	2,252,575	2,224,100	2,182,467
Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share	$ 14,800	$ 14,100	$ 7,800
Stock Options [Member]
Basic:
Effect of Dilutive Securities	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Effect of Dilutive Securities (in shares)	69,100	116,276	189,968
Essex Portfolio, L.P. [Member]
Basic:
Net income available to common stockholders	$ 447,884	$ 425,213	$ 234,689
Income from continuing operations available to common stockholders (in shares)	68,081,730	67,695,640	67,054,184
Income from continuing operations available to common stockholders (in dollars per share)	$ 6.58	$ 6.28	$ 3.50
Diluted:
Income from continuing operations available to common stockholders	$ 447,884	$ 425,213	$ 234,689
Income from continuing operations available to common stockholders (in shares)	68,150,830	67,811,916	67,244,152
Income from continuing operations available to common stockholders (in dollars per share)	$ 6.57	$ 6.27	$ 3.49
Essex Portfolio, L.P. [Member] | Stock Options [Member]
Basic:
Effect of Dilutive Securities	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Effect of Dilutive Securities (in shares)	69,100	116,276	189,968
Diluted:
Anti-dilutive securities (in shares)	154,793	252,334	54,100

Equity Based Compensation Pla60

Equity Based Compensation Plans (Details)	Dec. 09, 2014shares	Dec. 31, 2013shares	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Dec. 09, 2015	Dec. 31, 2011shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of shares available (in shares) | shares			1,000,000
Exercise price as a percentage of fair market value of common stock on grant date, minimum (in hundredths)			100.00%
Life of options, minimum (in years)			5 years
Life of options, maximum (in years)			10 years
Accelerated share-based compensation cost			$ 3,500,000	$ 3,500,000	$ 2,700,000
Intrinsic value of the options outstanding and fully vested			$ 11,300,000	$ 20,800,000
Average fair value of stock options granted (in dollars per share) | $ / shares			$ 22.41	$ 21.65	$ 22.78
Cap on the appreciation of the market price over the exercise price, option 1			$ 100	$ 100	$ 100
Cap on the appreciation of the market price over the exercise price, option 2			125	125	125
BRE Properties, Inc. [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Merger and integration expenses				0
Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share based compensation expense			9,500,000	8,200,000	6,100,000
Stock-based compensation capitalized			1,500,000	500,000	300,000
Intrinsic value of options exercised			16,700,000	$ 11,900,000	$ 19,400,000
Unrecognized compensation cost			$ 6,500,000
Unrecognized compensation cost, period for recognition (in years)			2 years 6 months 15 days
Restricted Stock [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Unrecognized compensation cost			$ 7,000,000
Unrecognized compensation cost, period for recognition (in years)			2 years 1 month 12 days
Granted (in shares) | shares			62,706	49,183	56,177
2015 LTIP Units [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Option grants to officers and employees vesting period	5 years
Unrecognized compensation cost, period for recognition (in years)			7 years 6 months
Granted (in shares) | shares	44,750
Units issued subject only to performance measurement | shares	24,000
Vesting percentage of units per year	20.00%
Percent of awards earned						95.75%
Conversion ratio, incentive units			1
Liquidity measurement period (in years)			10 years
Measurement period (in years)			10 years
Series Z Incentive Units [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Option grants to officers and employees vesting period		4 years
Granted (in shares) | shares		50,500					154,500
Conversion ratio, incentive units							1
Incentive units conversion ratio							one-for-one
Long Term Incentive Plan 2014 Units [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Unrecognized compensation cost, period for recognition (in years)			1 year 2 months 12 days
Vesting percentage of units per year		25.00%
Conversion ratio, incentive units			1
Liquidity measurement period (in years)			10 years
Measurement period (in years)			10 years
Vesting percentage for 2011 Z 1 Units to be convertible							100.00%
Long Term Incentive Plans - Z Units and 2014 LTIP Units [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share based compensation expense			$ 1,800,000	$ 2,700,000	$ 3,500,000
Stock-based compensation capitalized			500,000	$ 600,000	$ 500,000
Unrecognized compensation cost			$ 1,600,000
Granted (in shares) | shares			0	0	0
Intrinsic value of vested and unvested LTIP units			$ 57,100,000
Minimum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Option grants to officers and employees vesting period			0 years
Minimum [Member] | Series Z Incentive Units [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Option grants to officers and employees vesting period			8 years
Vesting percentage of units per year							0.00%
Maximum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Option grants to officers and employees vesting period			5 years
Maximum [Member] | Series Z Incentive Units [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Option grants to officers and employees vesting period			15 years
Vesting percentage of units per year							14.00%

Equity Based Compensation Pla61

Equity Based Compensation Plans Weighted average assumptions (Details) - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Weighted average assumptions used to estimate fair value of stock options [Abstract]
Stock price (in dollars per share)	$ 240.56	$ 219.60	$ 227.75
Risk-free interest rates	2.30%	2.08%	1.83%
Expected lives	6 years	6 years	6 years
Volatility	24.10%	26.47%	20.06%
Dividend yield	2.90%	2.89%	2.73%

Equity Based Compensation Pla62

Equity Based Compensation Plans Summary of stock options activity (Details) - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Shares [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance, outstanding	557,648	525,094	664,785
Granted	164,677	207,429	78,600
Exercised	(176,489)	(138,054)	(203,556)
Forfeited and canceled	(9,628)	(36,821)	(14,735)
Ending balance, outstanding	536,208	557,648	525,094
Options exercisable at year end	223,796	290,340	342,048
Weighted-average exercise price [Abstract]
Outstanding at beginning of year (in dollars per share)	$ 181.50	$ 154.98	$ 138.78
Granted (in dollars per share)	240.56	219.60	227.75
Exercised (in dollars per share)	146.86	138.79	131.53
Forfeited and canceled (in dollars per share)	160.40	178.18	136.11
Outstanding at end of year (in dollars per share)	211.41	181.50	154.98
Options exercisable at year end (in dollars per share)	$ 191.09	$ 160.90	$ 152.42

Equity Based Compensation Pla63

Equity Based Compensation Plans, Restricted stock activity (Details) - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Restricted Stock [Member]
Shares [Roll forward]
Unvested at beginning of year (in shares)	58,349	54,676	25,820
Granted (in shares)	62,706	49,183	56,177
Vested (in shares)	(29,675)	(38,427)	(22,939)
Forfeited and canceled (in shares)	(557)	(7,083)	(4,382)
Unvested at end of year (in shares)	90,823	58,349	54,676	25,820
Weighted-average grant price [Abstract]
Unvested at beginning of year (in dollars per share)	$ 149.11	$ 147.10	$ 168.22
Granted (in dollars per share)	177.28	150.13	155.21
Vested (in dollars per share)	170.17	147.12	148.20
Forfeited and canceled (in dollars per share)	119.37	141.76	122.06
Unvested at end of year (in dollars per share)	$ 163.49	$ 149.11	$ 147.10	$ 168.22
Long Term Incentive Plans - Z Units and 2014 LTIP Units [Member]
Shares [Roll forward]
Unvested at beginning of year (in shares)	60,027	106,157	151,067
Granted (in shares)	0	0	0
Vested (in shares)	(32,961)	(36,842)	(36,650)
Converted (in shares)	0	0	0
Forfeited and canceled (in shares)	(3,854)	(9,288)	(8,260)
Unvested at end of year (in shares)	23,212	60,027	106,157	151,067
Weighted-average grant price [Abstract]
Unvested at beginning of year (in dollars per share)	$ 75.11	$ 75.41	$ 71.14
Unvested at end of year (in dollars per share)	$ 75.03	$ 75.11	$ 75.41	$ 71.14
Incentive units vested [Roll Forward]
Vested, beginning balance (in shares)	181,027	144,185	181,919
Vested, units granted (in shares)	0	0	0
Vested, units vested (in shares)	32,961	36,842	36,650
Converted (in shares)	(688)	0	(74,384)
Cancelled (in shares)	0	0	0
Vested, ending balance (in shares)	213,300	181,027	144,185	181,919
Total outstanding incentive units [Abstract]
Total outstanding units, beginning balance (in shares)	241,054	250,342	332,986
Total outstanding units, granted (in shares)	0	0	0
Total outstanding units, vested (in shares)	0	0	0
Total outstanding units, converted (in shares)	(688)	0	(74,384)
Total outstanding units, cancelled (in shares)	(3,854)	(9,288)	(8,260)
Total outstanding units, ending balance (in shares)	236,512	241,054	250,342	332,986
Weighted average remaining contractual life outstanding units	7 years 6 months	8 years 6 months	9 years 6 months	10 years 6 months

Segment Information (Details)

Segment Information (Details) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2017USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2017USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2016USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)segment	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Number of reportable operating segments defined by geographical regions | segment									3
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Total property revenues	$ 342,417	$ 341,974	$ 336,766	$ 333,168	$ 326,905	$ 327,078	$ 319,562	$ 312,178	$ 1,354,325	$ 1,285,723	$ 1,185,498
Net operating income									948,783	896,796	821,990
Management and other fees from affiliates									9,574	8,278	8,909
Depreciation and amortization									(468,881)	(441,682)	(453,423)
General and administrative									(41,385)	(40,751)	(40,090)
Merger and integration expenses									0	0	(3,798)
Acquisition and investment related costs									(1,569)	(1,841)	(2,414)
Interest expense									(222,894)	(219,654)	(204,827)
Total return swap income									10,098	11,716	5,655
Interest and other income									24,604	27,305	19,143
Equity income from co-investments									86,445	48,698	21,861
Loss on early retirement of debt									(1,796)	(606)	(6,114)
Gain on sale of real estate and land									26,423	154,561	47,333
Deferred tax expense on gain on sale of real estate and land									0	(4,410)	0
Gain on remeasurement of co-investment									88,641	0	34,014
Net income									458,043	438,410	248,239
Net reportable operating segments - real estate assets	10,579,534				10,364,760				10,579,534	10,364,760
Real estate under development	355,735				190,505				355,735	190,505
Co-investments	1,155,984				1,161,275				1,155,984	1,161,275
Real estate held for sale, net	0				101,957				0	101,957
Cash and cash equivalents, including restricted cash	61,126				170,302				61,126	170,302
Marketable securities	190,004				139,189				190,004	139,189
Notes and other receivables (includes related party receivables of $41.2 million and $11.3 million as of December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively)	100,926				40,970				100,926	40,970
Prepaid expenses and other assets	52,397				48,450				52,397	48,450
Total assets	12,495,706				12,217,408				12,495,706	12,217,408
Reportable Geographical Components [Member] | Southern California [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Total property revenues									596,217	561,094	507,536
Net operating income									409,133	382,312	340,797
Net reportable operating segments - real estate assets	4,788,225				4,924,792				4,788,225	4,924,792
Reportable Geographical Components [Member] | Northern California [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Total property revenues									505,313	453,140	407,590
Net operating income									363,238	325,394	291,168
Net reportable operating segments - real estate assets	4,215,449				3,791,549				4,215,449	3,791,549
Reportable Geographical Components [Member] | Seattle Metro [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Total property revenues									229,871	217,259	201,417
Net operating income									156,404	148,279	136,579
Net reportable operating segments - real estate assets	1,520,372				1,570,340				1,520,372	1,570,340
Other real estate assets [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Total property revenues									22,924	54,230	68,955
Net operating income									20,008	40,811	$ 53,446
Net reportable operating segments - real estate assets	$ 55,488				$ 78,079				$ 55,488	$ 78,079

401(k) Plan (Details)

401(k) Plan (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Defined Contribution Plan [Abstract]
Employer matching contribution, percent	50.00%
Company contributions to benefit plan	$ 1.8	$ 1.8	$ 1.6

Commitments and Contingencies66

Commitments and Contingencies (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)lease
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Number of non cancelable ground leases | lease	7
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due [Abstract]
2,018	$ 4,723
2,019	4,782
2,020	4,842
2,021	4,905
2,022	4,970
Thereafter	112,361
Total future operating lease minimum payments	136,583
Property casualty insurance, deductible per incident, maximum	5,000
Pacific Western Insurance LLC [Member]
Guarantor Obligations [Line Items]
Investments and Cash	$ 81,800

Subsequent Events (Details)

Subsequent Events (Details) $ in Millions	1 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2018USD ($)
Subsequent Event [Member] | BEX III [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Repayments of related party debt	$ 29.5

Quarterly Results of Operatio68

Quarterly Results of Operations (Unaudited) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Total property revenues	$ 342,417	$ 341,974	$ 336,766	$ 333,168	$ 326,905	$ 327,078	$ 319,562	$ 312,178	$ 1,354,325	$ 1,285,723	$ 1,185,498
Net income	109,662	85,035	75,795	187,551	204,517	70,162	76,824	86,907	458,043	438,410	248,239
Net income available to common stockholders	$ 103,613	$ 79,723	$ 70,759	$ 178,964	$ 195,569	$ 65,561	$ 72,013	$ 77,981	$ 433,059	$ 411,124	$ 226,865
Net income:
Net income available to common stockholders - basic (in dollars per share)	$ 1.57	$ 1.21	$ 1.08	$ 2.73	$ 2.98	$ 1	$ 1.10	$ 1.19	$ 6.58	$ 6.28	$ 3.50
Net income available to common stockholders - diluted (in dollars per share)	1.57	1.21	1.08	2.72	2.98	1	1.10	1.19	$ 6.57	$ 6.27	$ 3.49
Market price:
High (in dollars per share)	264.07	270.04	268.97	238.57	234.07	236.56	237.50	240.55
Low (in dollars per share)	237.33	249.46	229.14	218.41	200.01	217.16	207.20	191.25
Close (in dollars per share)	241.37	254.03	257.27	231.53	232.50	222.70	228.09	233.86
Dividends declared (in dollars per share)	$ 1.75	$ 1.75	$ 1.75	$ 1.75	$ 1.6	$ 1.60	$ 1.60	$ 1.60
Essex Portfolio, L.P. [Member]
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Total property revenues	$ 342,417	$ 341,974	$ 336,766	$ 333,168	$ 326,905	$ 327,078	$ 319,562	$ 312,178	$ 1,354,325	$ 1,285,723	$ 1,185,498
Net income	109,662	85,035	75,795	187,551	204,517	70,162	76,824	86,907	458,043	438,410	248,239
Net income available to common stockholders	$ 107,149	$ 82,444	$ 73,181	$ 185,110	$ 202,201	$ 67,784	$ 74,463	$ 80,765	$ 447,884	$ 425,213	$ 234,689
Net income:
Net income available to common stockholders - basic (in dollars per share)	$ 1.57	$ 1.21	$ 1.08	$ 2.73	$ 2.98	$ 1	$ 1.10	$ 1.19	$ 6.58	$ 6.28	$ 3.50
Net income available to common stockholders - diluted (in dollars per share)	1.57	1.21	1.08	2.72	2.98	1	1.10	1.19	$ 6.57	$ 6.27	$ 3.49
Market price:
Dividends declared (in dollars per share)	$ 1.75	$ 1.75	$ 1.75	$ 1.75	$ 1.6	$ 1.6	$ 1.6	$ 1.6

SCHEDULE III REAL ESTATE AND 69

SCHEDULE III REAL ESTATE AND ACCUMULATED DEPRECIATION (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)apartment	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)ft²
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Encumbrance				$ 2,008,417
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				2,660,937
Buildings and improvements				9,015,672
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				1,672,222
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				2,719,064
Buildings and improvements				10,629,767
Total	$ 13,348,831			13,348,831
Accumulated depreciation	(2,311,546)	$ (1,949,892)	$ (1,564,806)	(2,769,297)
Aggregate cost for federal income tax purpose	10,600,000
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Acquisition, development, and improvement of real estate	700,892	609,669	1,333,102
Disposition of real estate	(28,367)	(264,832)	(246,314)
Balance at the end of year	13,348,831
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of year	2,311,546	1,949,892	1,564,806
Depreciation expense	464,043	432,165	402,687
Depreciation expense - Disposals and other	(6,292)	(70,511)	(17,601)
Balance at the end of year	$ 2,769,297	2,311,546	1,949,892
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	14,988
Encumbrance				2,008,417
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				764,224
Buildings and improvements				2,416,739
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				510,489
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				774,421
Buildings and improvements				2,917,031
Total	$ 3,691,452			3,691,452
Accumulated depreciation	(868,971)			(868,971)
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	3,691,452
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 868,971
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Avondale at Warner Center [Member] | Woodland Hills, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	446
Encumbrance				42,844
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				10,536
Buildings and improvements				24,522
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				21,096
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				10,601
Buildings and improvements				45,553
Total	$ 56,154			56,154
Accumulated depreciation	$ (30,410)			(30,410)
Date of construction	1,970
Date acquired	Jan99
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 56,154
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 30,410
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Avondale at Warner Center [Member] | Woodland Hills, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Avondale at Warner Center [Member] | Woodland Hills, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Bel Air [Member] | San Ramon, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	462
Encumbrance				50,386
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				12,105
Buildings and improvements				18,252
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				35,236
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				12,682
Buildings and improvements				52,911
Total	$ 65,593			65,593
Accumulated depreciation	$ (33,713)			(33,713)
Date of construction	1,988
Date acquired	Jan95
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 65,593
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 33,713
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Bel Air [Member] | San Ramon, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Bel Air [Member] | San Ramon, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Belcarra [Member] | Bellevue, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	296
Encumbrance				50,337
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				21,725
Buildings and improvements				92,091
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				1,266
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				21,725
Buildings and improvements				93,357
Total	$ 115,082			115,082
Accumulated depreciation	$ (12,712)			(12,712)
Date of construction	2,009
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 115,082
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 12,712
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Belcarra [Member] | Bellevue, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Belcarra [Member] | Bellevue, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | BellCentre [Member] | Bellevue, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	248
Encumbrance				38,024
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				16,197
Buildings and improvements				67,207
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				3,529
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				16,197
Buildings and improvements				70,736
Total	$ 86,933			86,933
Accumulated depreciation	$ (10,053)			(10,053)
Date of construction	2,001
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 86,933
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 10,053
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | BellCentre [Member] | Bellevue, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | BellCentre [Member] | Bellevue, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Belmont Station [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	275
Encumbrance				29,654
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				8,100
Buildings and improvements				66,666
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				6,176
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				8,267
Buildings and improvements				72,675
Total	$ 80,942			80,942
Accumulated depreciation	$ (26,071)			(26,071)
Date of construction	2,009
Date acquired	Mar09
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 80,942
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 26,071
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Belmont Station [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Belmont Station [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Brookside Oaks [Member] | Sunnyvale, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	170
Encumbrance				18,152
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				7,301
Buildings and improvements				16,310
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				25,695
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				10,328
Buildings and improvements				38,978
Total	$ 49,306			49,306
Accumulated depreciation	$ (20,377)			(20,377)
Date of construction	1,973
Date acquired	Jun00
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 49,306
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 20,377
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Brookside Oaks [Member] | Sunnyvale, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Brookside Oaks [Member] | Sunnyvale, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Carmel Creek [Member] | San Diego, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	348
Encumbrance				61,009
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				26,842
Buildings and improvements				107,368
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				5,271
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				26,842
Buildings and improvements				112,639
Total	$ 139,481			139,481
Accumulated depreciation	$ (16,153)			(16,153)
Date of construction	2,000
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 139,481
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 16,153
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Carmel Creek [Member] | San Diego, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Carmel Creek [Member] | San Diego, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | City View [Member] | Hayward, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	572
Encumbrance				64,094
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				9,883
Buildings and improvements				37,670
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				26,670
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				10,350
Buildings and improvements				63,873
Total	$ 74,223			74,223
Accumulated depreciation	$ (44,300)			(44,300)
Date of construction	1,975
Date acquired	Mar98
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 74,223
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 44,300
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | City View [Member] | Hayward, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | City View [Member] | Hayward, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Courtyard off Main [Member] | Bellevue, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	110
Encumbrance				14,846
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				7,465
Buildings and improvements				21,405
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				3,757
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				7,465
Buildings and improvements				25,162
Total	$ 32,627			32,627
Accumulated depreciation	$ (6,700)			(6,700)
Date of construction	2,000
Date acquired	Oct10
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 32,627
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 6,700
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Courtyard off Main [Member] | Bellevue, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Courtyard off Main [Member] | Bellevue, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Domaine [Member] | Seattle, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	92
Encumbrance				14,029
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				9,059
Buildings and improvements				27,177
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				920
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				9,059
Buildings and improvements				28,097
Total	$ 37,156			37,156
Accumulated depreciation	$ (5,183)			(5,183)
Date of construction	2,009
Date acquired	Sep12
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 37,156
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 5,183
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Domaine [Member] | Seattle, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Domaine [Member] | Seattle, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Elevation [Member] | Redmond, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	158
Encumbrance				10,406
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				4,758
Buildings and improvements				14,285
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				6,476
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				4,757
Buildings and improvements				20,762
Total	$ 25,519			25,519
Accumulated depreciation	$ (7,508)			(7,508)
Date of construction	1,986
Date acquired	Jun10
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 25,519
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 7,508
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Elevation [Member] | Redmond, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Elevation [Member] | Redmond, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Ellington [Member] | Bellevue, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	220
Encumbrance				20,684
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				15,066
Buildings and improvements				45,249
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				3,191
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				15,066
Buildings and improvements				48,440
Total	$ 63,506			63,506
Accumulated depreciation	$ (5,793)			(5,793)
Date of construction	1,994
Date acquired	Jul14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 63,506
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 5,793
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Ellington [Member] | Bellevue, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Ellington [Member] | Bellevue, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Fairhaven Apartments [Member] | Santa Ana, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	164
Encumbrance				18,533
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				2,626
Buildings and improvements				10,485
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				7,741
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				2,957
Buildings and improvements				17,895
Total	$ 20,852			20,852
Accumulated depreciation	$ (9,600)			(9,600)
Date of construction	1,970
Date acquired	Nov01
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 20,852
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 9,600
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Fairhaven Apartments [Member] | Santa Ana, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Fairhaven Apartments [Member] | Santa Ana, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Form 15 [Member] | San Diego, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	242
Encumbrance				46,189
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				24,510
Buildings and improvements				72,221
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				4,734
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				25,540
Buildings and improvements				75,925
Total	$ 101,465			101,465
Accumulated depreciation	$ (4,850)			(4,850)
Date of construction	2,014
Date acquired	Mar16
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 101,465
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 4,850
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Form 15 [Member] | San Diego, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Form 15 [Member] | San Diego, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Foster's Landing [Member] | Foster City, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	490
Encumbrance				93,585
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				61,714
Buildings and improvements				144,000
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				8,245
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				61,714
Buildings and improvements				152,245
Total	$ 213,959			213,959
Accumulated depreciation	$ (22,269)			(22,269)
Date of construction	1,987
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 213,959
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 22,269
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Foster's Landing [Member] | Foster City, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Foster's Landing [Member] | Foster City, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Fountain At Riveroaks [Member] | San Jose, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	226
Encumbrance				31,056
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				26,046
Buildings and improvements				60,773
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				3,652
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				26,046
Buildings and improvements				64,425
Total	$ 90,471			90,471
Accumulated depreciation	$ (9,116)			(9,116)
Date of construction	1,990
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 90,471
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 9,116
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Fountain At Riveroaks [Member] | San Jose, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Fountain At Riveroaks [Member] | San Jose, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Fountain Park [Member] | Playa Vista, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	705
Encumbrance				82,503
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				25,073
Buildings and improvements				94,980
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				31,832
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				25,203
Buildings and improvements				126,682
Total	$ 151,885			151,885
Accumulated depreciation	$ (65,049)			(65,049)
Date of construction	2,002
Date acquired	Feb04
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 151,885
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 65,049
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Fountain Park [Member] | Playa Vista, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Fountain Park [Member] | Playa Vista, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Hidden Valley [Member] | Simi Valley, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	324
Encumbrance				29,327
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				14,174
Buildings and improvements				34,065
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				4,607
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				9,674
Buildings and improvements				43,172
Total	$ 52,846			52,846
Accumulated depreciation	$ (19,168)			(19,168)
Date of construction	2,004
Date acquired	Dec04
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 52,846
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 19,168
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Hidden Valley [Member] | Simi Valley, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Hidden Valley [Member] | Simi Valley, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Highlands at Wynhaven [Member] | Issaquah, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	333
Encumbrance				30,240
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				16,271
Buildings and improvements				48,932
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				12,255
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				16,271
Buildings and improvements				61,187
Total	$ 77,458			77,458
Accumulated depreciation	$ (21,289)			(21,289)
Date of construction	2,000
Date acquired	Aug08
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 77,458
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 21,289
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Highlands at Wynhaven [Member] | Issaquah, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Highlands at Wynhaven [Member] | Issaquah, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Highridge [Member] | Rancho Palos Verdes, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	255
Encumbrance				69,238
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				5,419
Buildings and improvements				18,347
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				30,726
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				6,073
Buildings and improvements				48,419
Total	$ 54,492			54,492
Accumulated depreciation	$ (33,537)			(33,537)
Date of construction	1,972
Date acquired	May97
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 54,492
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 33,537
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Highridge [Member] | Rancho Palos Verdes, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Highridge [Member] | Rancho Palos Verdes, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Hillcrest Park [Member] | Newbury Park, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	608
Encumbrance				62,780
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				15,318
Buildings and improvements				40,601
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				19,704
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				15,755
Buildings and improvements				59,868
Total	$ 75,623			75,623
Accumulated depreciation	$ (37,377)			(37,377)
Date of construction	1,973
Date acquired	Mar98
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 75,623
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 37,377
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Hillcrest Park [Member] | Newbury Park, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Hillcrest Park [Member] | Newbury Park, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Huntington Breakers [Member] | Huntington Beach, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	342
Encumbrance				35,192
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				9,306
Buildings and improvements				22,720
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				20,267
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				9,315
Buildings and improvements				42,978
Total	$ 52,293			52,293
Accumulated depreciation	$ (25,931)			(25,931)
Date of construction	1,984
Date acquired	Oct97
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 52,293
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 25,931
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Huntington Breakers [Member] | Huntington Beach, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Huntington Breakers [Member] | Huntington Beach, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Inglenook Court [Member] | Bothell, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	224
Encumbrance				8,216
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				3,467
Buildings and improvements				7,881
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				7,588
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				3,474
Buildings and improvements				15,462
Total	$ 18,936			18,936
Accumulated depreciation	$ (12,067)			(12,067)
Date of construction	1,985
Date acquired	Oct94
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 18,936
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 12,067
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Inglenook Court [Member] | Bothell, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Inglenook Court [Member] | Bothell, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | 1000 Kiely [Member] | Santa Clara, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	121
Encumbrance				34,868
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				9,359
Buildings and improvements				21,845
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				7,652
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				9,359
Buildings and improvements				29,497
Total	$ 38,856			38,856
Accumulated depreciation	$ (8,954)			(8,954)
Date of construction	1,971
Date acquired	Mar11
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 38,856
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 8,954
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Magnolia Square/Magnolia Lane [Member] | Sunnyvale, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	188
Encumbrance				52,205
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				8,190
Buildings and improvements				24,736
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				16,649
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				8,191
Buildings and improvements				41,384
Total	$ 49,575			49,575
Accumulated depreciation	$ (18,214)			(18,214)
Date of construction	1,963
Date acquired	Sep07
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 49,575
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 18,214
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Magnolia Square/Magnolia Lane [Member] | Sunnyvale, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Magnolia Square/Magnolia Lane [Member] | Sunnyvale, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Mill Creek at Windermere [Member] | San Ramon, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	400
Encumbrance				45,419
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				29,551
Buildings and improvements				69,032
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				4,700
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				29,551
Buildings and improvements				73,732
Total	$ 103,283			103,283
Accumulated depreciation	$ (26,212)			(26,212)
Date of construction	2,005
Date acquired	Sep07
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 103,283
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 26,212
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Mill Creek at Windermere [Member] | San Ramon, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Mill Creek at Windermere [Member] | San Ramon, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Mirabella [Member] | Marina Del Rey, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	188
Encumbrance				41,509
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				6,180
Buildings and improvements				26,673
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				14,952
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				6,270
Buildings and improvements				41,535
Total	$ 47,805			47,805
Accumulated depreciation	$ (22,805)			(22,805)
Date of construction	2,000
Date acquired	May00
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 47,805
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 22,805
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Mirabella [Member] | Marina Del Rey, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Mirabella [Member] | Marina Del Rey, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Montarosa [Member] | San Diego, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	472
Encumbrance				61,222
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				26,697
Buildings and improvements				106,787
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				4,611
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				26,697
Buildings and improvements				111,398
Total	$ 138,095			138,095
Accumulated depreciation	$ (15,660)			(15,660)
Date of construction	1,990
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 138,095
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 15,660
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Montarosa [Member] | San Diego, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Montarosa [Member] | San Diego, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Montclaire [Member] | Sunnyvale, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	390
Encumbrance				43,261
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				4,842
Buildings and improvements				19,776
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				24,901
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				4,997
Buildings and improvements				44,522
Total	$ 49,519			49,519
Accumulated depreciation	$ (37,862)			(37,862)
Date of construction	1,973
Date acquired	Dec88
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 49,519
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 37,862
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Montclaire [Member] | Sunnyvale, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Montclaire [Member] | Sunnyvale, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Montebello [Member] | Kirkland, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	248
Encumbrance				25,569
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				13,857
Buildings and improvements				41,575
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				4,524
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				13,858
Buildings and improvements				46,098
Total	$ 59,956			59,956
Accumulated depreciation	$ (9,729)			(9,729)
Date of construction	1,996
Date acquired	Jul12
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 59,956
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 9,729
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Montebello [Member] | Kirkland, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Montebello [Member] | Kirkland, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Montejo Apartments [Member] | Garden Grove, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	124
Encumbrance				13,196
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				1,925
Buildings and improvements				7,685
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				3,871
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				2,194
Buildings and improvements				11,287
Total	$ 13,481			13,481
Accumulated depreciation	$ (5,901)			(5,901)
Date of construction	1,974
Date acquired	Nov01
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 13,481
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 5,901
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Montejo Apartments [Member] | Garden Grove, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Montejo Apartments [Member] | Garden Grove, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Park Highland [Member] | Bellevue, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	250
Encumbrance				25,910
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				9,391
Buildings and improvements				38,224
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				11,622
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				9,391
Buildings and improvements				49,846
Total	$ 59,237			59,237
Accumulated depreciation	$ (8,048)			(8,048)
Date of construction	1,993
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 59,237
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 8,048
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Park Highland [Member] | Bellevue, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Park Highland [Member] | Bellevue, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Park Hill at Issaquah [Member] | Issaquah, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	245
Encumbrance				26,607
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				7,284
Buildings and improvements				21,937
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				7,460
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				7,284
Buildings and improvements				29,397
Total	$ 36,681			36,681
Accumulated depreciation	$ (13,241)			(13,241)
Date of construction	1,999
Date acquired	Feb99
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 36,681
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 13,241
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Park Hill at Issaquah [Member] | Issaquah, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Park Hill at Issaquah [Member] | Issaquah, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Pinnacle at Fullerton [Member] | Fullerton, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	192
Encumbrance				26,094
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				11,019
Buildings and improvements				45,932
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				2,707
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				11,019
Buildings and improvements				48,639
Total	$ 59,658			59,658
Accumulated depreciation	$ (6,843)			(6,843)
Date of construction	2,004
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 59,658
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 6,843
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Pinnacle at Fullerton [Member] | Fullerton, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Pinnacle at Fullerton [Member] | Fullerton, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Pinnacle on Lake Washington [Member] | Renton, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	180
Encumbrance				17,794
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				7,760
Buildings and improvements				31,041
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				1,880
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				7,760
Buildings and improvements				32,921
Total	$ 40,681			40,681
Accumulated depreciation	$ (4,530)			(4,530)
Date of construction	2,001
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 40,681
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 4,530
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Pinnacle on Lake Washington [Member] | Renton, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Pinnacle on Lake Washington [Member] | Renton, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Pinnacle at MacArthur Ranch [Member] | Santa Ana, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	253
Encumbrance				37,726
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				15,810
Buildings and improvements				66,401
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				4,039
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				15,810
Buildings and improvements				70,440
Total	$ 86,250			86,250
Accumulated depreciation	$ (9,747)			(9,747)
Date of construction	2,002
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 86,250
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 9,747
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Pinnacle at MacArthur Ranch [Member] | Santa Ana, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Pinnacle at MacArthur Ranch [Member] | Santa Ana, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Pinnacle at Otay Ranch I & II [Member] | Chula Vista, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	364
Encumbrance				38,649
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				17,023
Buildings and improvements				68,093
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				3,245
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				17,023
Buildings and improvements				71,338
Total	$ 88,361			88,361
Accumulated depreciation	$ (10,033)			(10,033)
Date of construction	2,001
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 88,361
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 10,033
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Pinnacle at Otay Ranch I & II [Member] | Chula Vista, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Pinnacle at Otay Ranch I & II [Member] | Chula Vista, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Pinnacle at Talega [Member] | San Clemente, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	362
Encumbrance				43,166
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				19,292
Buildings and improvements				77,168
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				2,228
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				19,292
Buildings and improvements				79,396
Total	$ 98,688			98,688
Accumulated depreciation	$ (11,091)			(11,091)
Date of construction	2,002
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 98,688
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 11,091
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Pinnacle at Talega [Member] | Irvine, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Pinnacle at Talega [Member] | Irvine, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Membership Interest In Sage At Cupertino [Member] | San Jose, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	230
Encumbrance				51,938
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				35,719
Buildings and improvements				53,449
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				1,495
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				35,719
Buildings and improvements				54,944
Total	$ 90,663			90,663
Accumulated depreciation	$ (1,457)			(1,457)
Date of construction	1,971
Date acquired	Mar17
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 90,663
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 1,457
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Membership Interest In Sage At Cupertino [Member] | San Jose, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Membership Interest In Sage At Cupertino [Member] | San Jose, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Stevenson Place [Member] | Fremont, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	200
Encumbrance				20,247
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				996
Buildings and improvements				5,582
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				11,717
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				1,001
Buildings and improvements				17,294
Total	$ 18,295			18,295
Accumulated depreciation	$ (12,155)			(12,155)
Date of construction	1,975
Date acquired	Apr00
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 18,295
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 12,155
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Stevenson Place [Member] | Fremont, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Stevenson Place [Member] | Fremont, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Summerhill Park [Member] | Sunnyvale, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	100
Encumbrance				12,538
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				2,654
Buildings and improvements				4,918
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				10,949
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				2,656
Buildings and improvements				15,865
Total	$ 18,521			18,521
Accumulated depreciation	$ (8,777)			(8,777)
Date of construction	1,988
Date acquired	Sep88
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 18,521
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 8,777
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Summerhill Park [Member] | Sunnyvale, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Summerhill Park [Member] | Sunnyvale, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Audrey at Belltown [Member] | Seattle, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	137
Encumbrance				20,521
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				9,228
Buildings and improvements				36,911
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				778
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				9,228
Buildings and improvements				37,689
Total	$ 46,917			46,917
Accumulated depreciation	$ (5,163)			(5,163)
Date of construction	1,992
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 46,917
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 5,163
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Audrey at Belltown [Member] | Seattle, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Audrey at Belltown [Member] | Seattle, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Barkley [Member] | Anaheim, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	161
Encumbrance				15,358
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				0
Buildings and improvements				8,520
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				6,515
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				2,353
Buildings and improvements				12,682
Total	$ 15,035			15,035
Accumulated depreciation	$ (7,483)			(7,483)
Date of construction	1,984
Date acquired	Apr00
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 15,035
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 7,483
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Barkley [Member] | Anaheim, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Barkley [Member] | Anaheim, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Bernard [Member] | Seattle, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	63
Encumbrance				8,531
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				3,699
Buildings and improvements				11,345
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				584
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				3,689
Buildings and improvements				11,939
Total	$ 15,628			15,628
Accumulated depreciation	$ (2,587)			(2,587)
Date of construction	2,008
Date acquired	Sep11
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 15,628
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 2,587
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Bernard [Member] | Seattle, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Bernard [Member] | Seattle, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Dylan [Member] | West Hollywood, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	184
Encumbrance				59,468
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				19,984
Buildings and improvements				82,286
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				608
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				19,990
Buildings and improvements				82,888
Total	$ 102,878			102,878
Accumulated depreciation	$ (9,097)			(9,097)
Date of construction	2,015
Date acquired	Mar15
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 102,878
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 9,097
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Dylan [Member] | West Hollywood, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Dylan [Member] | West Hollywood, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Huntington [Member] | Huntington Beach, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	276
Encumbrance				28,799
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				10,374
Buildings and improvements				41,495
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				4,741
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				10,374
Buildings and improvements				46,236
Total	$ 56,610			56,610
Accumulated depreciation	$ (9,671)			(9,671)
Date of construction	1,975
Date acquired	Jun12
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 56,610
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 9,671
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Huntington [Member] | Huntington Beach, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Huntington [Member] | Huntington Beach, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Huxley [Member] | West Hollywood, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	187
Encumbrance				54,155
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				19,362
Buildings and improvements				75,641
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				1,033
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				19,371
Buildings and improvements				76,665
Total	$ 96,036			96,036
Accumulated depreciation	$ (8,608)			(8,608)
Date of construction	2,014
Date acquired	Mar15
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 96,036
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 8,608
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Huxley [Member] | West Hollywood, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Huxley [Member] | West Hollywood, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Landing at Jack London Square [Member] | Oakland, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	282
Encumbrance				51,246
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				33,554
Buildings and improvements				78,292
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				5,314
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				33,554
Buildings and improvements				83,606
Total	$ 117,160			117,160
Accumulated depreciation	$ (12,370)			(12,370)
Date of construction	2,001
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 117,160
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 12,370
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Landing at Jack London Square [Member] | Oakland, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Landing at Jack London Square [Member] | Oakland, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Palisades [Member] | Bellevue, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	192
Encumbrance				19,338
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				1,560
Buildings and improvements				6,242
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				12,709
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				1,565
Buildings and improvements				18,946
Total	$ 20,511			20,511
Accumulated depreciation	$ (16,021)			(16,021)
Date of construction	1,977
Date acquired	May90
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 20,511
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 16,021
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Palisades [Member] | Bellevue, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Palisades [Member] | Bellevue, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Palms at Laguna Niguel [Member] | Laguna Niguel, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	460
Encumbrance				54,450
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				23,584
Buildings and improvements				94,334
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				6,569
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				23,584
Buildings and improvements				100,903
Total	$ 124,487			124,487
Accumulated depreciation	$ (14,019)			(14,019)
Date of construction	1,988
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 124,487
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 14,019
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Palms at Laguna Niguel [Member] | Laguna Niguel, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Palms at Laguna Niguel [Member] | Laguna Niguel, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Waterford [Member] | San Jose, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	238
Encumbrance				29,760
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				11,808
Buildings and improvements				24,500
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				14,581
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				15,165
Buildings and improvements				35,724
Total	$ 50,889			50,889
Accumulated depreciation	$ (20,491)			(20,491)
Date of construction	2,000
Date acquired	Jun00
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 50,889
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 20,491
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Waterford [Member] | San Jose, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Waterford [Member] | San Jose, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Valley Park [Member] | Fountain Valley [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	160
Encumbrance				21,400
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				3,361
Buildings and improvements				13,420
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				5,744
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				3,761
Buildings and improvements				18,764
Total	$ 22,525			22,525
Accumulated depreciation	$ (9,907)			(9,907)
Date of construction	1,969
Date acquired	Nov01
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 22,525
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 9,907
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Valley Park [Member] | Fountain Valley [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Valley Park [Member] | Fountain Valley [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Villa Angelina [Member] | Placentia, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	256
Encumbrance				27,869
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				4,498
Buildings and improvements				17,962
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				7,044
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				4,962
Buildings and improvements				24,542
Total	$ 29,504			29,504
Accumulated depreciation	$ (13,340)			(13,340)
Date of construction	1,970
Date acquired	Nov01
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 29,504
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 13,340
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Villa Angelina [Member] | Placentia, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Villa Angelina [Member] | Placentia, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Villa Grenada [Member] | Santa Clara, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	270
Encumbrance				56,474
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				38,299
Buildings and improvements				89,365
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				1,449
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				38,299
Buildings and improvements				90,814
Total	$ 129,113			129,113
Accumulated depreciation	$ (12,672)			(12,672)
Date of construction	2,010
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 129,113
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 12,672
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Villa Grenada [Member] | Santa Clara, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Villa Grenada [Member] | Santa Clara, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Wandering Creek [Member] | Kent, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	156
Encumbrance				5,239
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				1,285
Buildings and improvements				4,980
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				4,203
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				1,296
Buildings and improvements				9,172
Total	$ 10,468			10,468
Accumulated depreciation	$ (7,166)			(7,166)
Date of construction	1,986
Date acquired	Nov95
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 10,468
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 7,166
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Wandering Creek [Member] | Kent, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Wandering Creek [Member] | Kent, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Wilshire Promenade [Member] | Fullerton, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	149
Encumbrance				16,567
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				3,118
Buildings and improvements				7,385
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				8,781
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				3,797
Buildings and improvements				15,487
Total	$ 19,284			19,284
Accumulated depreciation	$ (9,891)			(9,891)
Date of construction	1,992
Date acquired	Jan97
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 19,284
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 9,891
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Wilshire Promenade [Member] | Fullerton, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Encumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Wilshire Promenade [Member] | Fullerton, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	34,441
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				1,893,634
Buildings and improvements				6,586,618
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				1,153,401
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				1,940,335
Buildings and improvements				7,693,318
Total	$ 9,633,653			9,633,653
Accumulated depreciation	(1,887,074)			(1,887,074)
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	9,633,653
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 1,887,074
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | 1000 Kiely [Member] | Santa Clara, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | 1000 Kiely [Member] | Santa Clara, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Eighth And Hope [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	290
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				29,279
Buildings and improvements				169,350
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				2,207
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				29,279
Buildings and improvements				171,557
Total	$ 200,836			200,836
Accumulated depreciation	$ (18,558)			(18,558)
Date of construction	2,014
Date acquired	Feb15
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 200,836
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 18,558
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Eighth And Hope [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Eighth And Hope [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Alessio [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	624
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				32,136
Buildings and improvements				128,543
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				7,794
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				32,136
Buildings and improvements				136,337
Total	$ 168,473			168,473
Accumulated depreciation	$ (19,336)			(19,336)
Date of construction	2,001
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 168,473
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 19,336
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Alessio [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Alessio [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Allegro [Member] | Valley Village, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	97
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				5,869
Buildings and improvements				23,977
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				1,968
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				5,869
Buildings and improvements				25,945
Total	$ 31,814			31,814
Accumulated depreciation	$ (8,463)			(8,463)
Date of construction	2,010
Date acquired	Oct10
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 31,814
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 8,463
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Allegro [Member] | Valley Village, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Allegro [Member] | Valley Village, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Allure [Member] | San Diego, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	194
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				11,923
Buildings and improvements				47,690
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				1,195
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				11,923
Buildings and improvements				48,885
Total	$ 60,808			60,808
Accumulated depreciation	$ (6,765)			(6,765)
Date of construction	2,002
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 60,808
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 6,765
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Allure [Member] | San Diego, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Allure [Member] | San Diego, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Alpine Village [Member] | Alpine, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	301
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				4,967
Buildings and improvements				19,728
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				8,111
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				4,982
Buildings and improvements				27,824
Total	$ 32,806			32,806
Accumulated depreciation	$ (14,106)			(14,106)
Date of construction	1,971
Date acquired	Dec02
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 32,806
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 14,106
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Alpine Village [Member] | Alpine, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Alpine Village [Member] | Alpine, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Anavia [Member] | Anaheim, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	250
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				15,925
Buildings and improvements				63,712
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				7,649
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				15,925
Buildings and improvements				71,361
Total	$ 87,286			87,286
Accumulated depreciation	$ (17,162)			(17,162)
Date of construction	2,009
Date acquired	Dec10
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 87,286
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 17,162
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Anavia [Member] | Anaheim, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Anavia [Member] | Anaheim, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Annaliese [Member] | Seattle, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	56
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				4,727
Buildings and improvements				14,229
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				525
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				4,726
Buildings and improvements				14,755
Total	$ 19,481			19,481
Accumulated depreciation	$ (2,501)			(2,501)
Date of construction	2,009
Date acquired	Jan13
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 19,481
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 2,501
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Annaliese [Member] | Seattle, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Annaliese [Member] | Seattle, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Apex [Member] | Milpitas, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	366
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				44,240
Buildings and improvements				103,251
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				2,512
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				44,240
Buildings and improvements				105,763
Total	$ 150,003			150,003
Accumulated depreciation	$ (11,748)			(11,748)
Date of construction	2,014
Date acquired	Aug14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 150,003
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 11,748
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Apex [Member] | Milpitas, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Apex [Member] | Milpitas, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Aqua at Marina Del Rey [Member] | Marina Del Rey, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	500
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				58,442
Buildings and improvements				175,326
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				11,921
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				58,442
Buildings and improvements				187,247
Total	$ 245,689			245,689
Accumulated depreciation	$ (27,261)			(27,261)
Date of construction	2,001
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 245,689
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 27,261
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Aqua at Marina Del Rey [Member] | Marina Del Rey, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Aqua at Marina Del Rey [Member] | Marina Del Rey, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Ascent [Member] | Kirkland, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	90
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				3,924
Buildings and improvements				11,862
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				1,806
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				3,924
Buildings and improvements				13,668
Total	$ 17,592			17,592
Accumulated depreciation	$ (2,937)			(2,937)
Date of construction	1,988
Date acquired	Oct12
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 17,592
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 2,937
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Ascent [Member] | Kirkland, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Ascent [Member] | Kirkland, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Ashton Sherman Village [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	264
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				23,550
Buildings and improvements				93,811
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				373
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				23,550
Buildings and improvements				94,184
Total	$ 117,734			117,734
Accumulated depreciation	$ (3,442)			(3,442)
Date of construction	2,014
Date acquired	Dec16
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 117,734
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 3,442
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Ashton Sherman Village [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Ashton Sherman Village [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Avant [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	440
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				32,379
Buildings and improvements				137,940
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				1,349
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				32,379
Buildings and improvements				139,289
Total	$ 171,668			171,668
Accumulated depreciation	$ (11,397)			(11,397)
Date of construction	2,014
Date acquired	Jun15
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 171,668
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 11,397
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Avant [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Avant [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Avenue 64 [Member] | Emeryville, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	224
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				27,235
Buildings and improvements				64,403
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				14,013
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				27,235
Buildings and improvements				78,416
Total	$ 105,651			105,651
Accumulated depreciation	$ (10,003)			(10,003)
Date of construction	2,007
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 105,651
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 10,003
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Avenue 64 [Member] | Emeryville, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Avenue 64 [Member] | Emeryville, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Aviara [Member] | Mercer Island, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	166
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				0
Buildings and improvements				49,813
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				680
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				0
Buildings and improvements				50,493
Total	$ 50,493			50,493
Accumulated depreciation	$ (7,820)			(7,820)
Date of construction	2,013
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 50,493
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 7,820
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Aviara [Member] | Mercer Island, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Aviara [Member] | Mercer Island, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Axis 2300 [Member] | Irvine, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	115
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				5,405
Buildings and improvements				33,585
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				1,559
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				5,405
Buildings and improvements				35,144
Total	$ 40,549			40,549
Accumulated depreciation	$ (11,130)			(11,130)
Date of construction	2,010
Date acquired	Aug10
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 40,549
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 11,130
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Axis 2300 [Member] | Irvine, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Axis 2300 [Member] | Irvine, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Bella Villagio [Member] | San Jose, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	231
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				17,247
Buildings and improvements				40,343
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				3,060
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				17,247
Buildings and improvements				43,403
Total	$ 60,650			60,650
Accumulated depreciation	$ (11,390)			(11,390)
Date of construction	2,004
Date acquired	Sep10
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 60,650
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 11,390
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Bella Villagio [Member] | San Jose, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Bella Villagio [Member] | San Jose, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Bellerive [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	63
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				5,401
Buildings and improvements				21,803
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				1,104
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				5,401
Buildings and improvements				22,907
Total	$ 28,308			28,308
Accumulated depreciation	$ (6,181)			(6,181)
Date of construction	2,011
Date acquired	Aug11
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 28,308
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 6,181
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Bellerive [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Bellerive [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Belmont Terrace [Member] | Belmont, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	71
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				4,446
Buildings and improvements				10,290
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				6,203
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				4,473
Buildings and improvements				16,466
Total	$ 20,939			20,939
Accumulated depreciation	$ (7,161)			(7,161)
Date of construction	1,974
Date acquired	Oct06
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 20,939
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 7,161
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Belmont Terrace [Member] | Belmont, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Belmont Terrace [Member] | Belmont, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Bennett Lofts [Member] | San Francisco, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	165
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				21,771
Buildings and improvements				50,800
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				28,948
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				28,371
Buildings and improvements				73,148
Total	$ 101,519			101,519
Accumulated depreciation	$ (13,218)			(13,218)
Date of construction	2,004
Date acquired	Dec12
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 101,519
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 13,218
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Bennett Lofts [Member] | San Francisco, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Bennett Lofts [Member] | San Francisco, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Bernardo Crest [Member] | San Diego, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	216
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				10,802
Buildings and improvements				43,209
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				2,738
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				10,802
Buildings and improvements				45,947
Total	$ 56,749			56,749
Accumulated depreciation	$ (6,542)			(6,542)
Date of construction	1,988
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 56,749
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 6,542
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Bernardo Crest [Member] | San Diego, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Bernardo Crest [Member] | San Diego, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Bonita Cedars [Member] | Bonita, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	120
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				2,496
Buildings and improvements				9,913
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				3,985
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				2,503
Buildings and improvements				13,891
Total	$ 16,394			16,394
Accumulated depreciation	$ (6,742)			(6,742)
Date of construction	1,983
Date acquired	Dec02
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 16,394
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 6,742
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Bonita Cedars [Member] | Bonita, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Bonita Cedars [Member] | Bonita, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Boulevard [Member] | Fremont, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	172
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				3,520
Buildings and improvements				8,182
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				12,963
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				3,580
Buildings and improvements				21,085
Total	$ 24,665			24,665
Accumulated depreciation	$ (16,059)			(16,059)
Date of construction	1,978
Date acquired	Jan96
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 24,665
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 16,059
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Boulevard [Member] | Fremont, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Boulevard [Member] | Fremont, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Bridle Trails [Member] | Kirkland, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	108
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				1,500
Buildings and improvements				5,930
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				5,812
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				1,531
Buildings and improvements				11,711
Total	$ 13,242			13,242
Accumulated depreciation	$ (8,081)			(8,081)
Date of construction	1,986
Date acquired	Oct97
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 13,242
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 8,081
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Bridle Trails [Member] | Kirkland, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Bridle Trails [Member] | Kirkland, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Brighton Ridge [Member] | Renton, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	264
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				2,623
Buildings and improvements				10,800
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				4,966
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				2,656
Buildings and improvements				15,733
Total	$ 18,389			18,389
Accumulated depreciation	$ (11,110)			(11,110)
Date of construction	1,986
Date acquired	Dec96
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 18,389
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 11,110
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Brighton Ridge [Member] | Renton, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Brighton Ridge [Member] | Renton, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Bristol Commons [Member] | Sunnyvale, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	188
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				5,278
Buildings and improvements				11,853
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				8,861
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				5,293
Buildings and improvements				20,699
Total	$ 25,992			25,992
Accumulated depreciation	$ (12,709)			(12,709)
Date of construction	1,989
Date acquired	Jan95
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 25,992
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 12,709
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Bristol Commons [Member] | Sunnyvale, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Bristol Commons [Member] | Sunnyvale, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | 416 on Broadway [Member] | Glendale, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	115
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				8,557
Buildings and improvements				34,235
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				2,296
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				8,557
Buildings and improvements				36,531
Total	$ 45,088			45,088
Accumulated depreciation	$ (9,509)			(9,509)
Date of construction	2,009
Date acquired	Dec10
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 45,088
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 9,509
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | 416 on Broadway [Member] | Glendale, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | 416 on Broadway [Member] | Glendale, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Bunker Hill [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	456
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				11,498
Buildings and improvements				27,871
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				75,593
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				11,639
Buildings and improvements				103,323
Total	$ 114,962			114,962
Accumulated depreciation	$ (43,100)			(43,100)
Date of construction	1,968
Date acquired	Mar98
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 114,962
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 43,100
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Bunker Hill [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Bunker Hill [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Camarillo Oaks [Member] | Camarillo, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	564
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				10,953
Buildings and improvements				25,254
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				6,100
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				11,075
Buildings and improvements				31,232
Total	$ 42,307			42,307
Accumulated depreciation	$ (21,946)			(21,946)
Date of construction	1,985
Date acquired	Jul96
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 42,307
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 21,946
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Camarillo Oaks [Member] | Camarillo, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Camarillo Oaks [Member] | Camarillo, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Cambridge Park [Member] | San Diego, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	320
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				18,185
Buildings and improvements				72,739
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				2,492
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				18,185
Buildings and improvements				75,231
Total	$ 93,416			93,416
Accumulated depreciation	$ (10,691)			(10,691)
Date of construction	1,998
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 93,416
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 10,691
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Cambridge Park [Member] | San Diego, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Cambridge Park [Member] | San Diego, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Camino Ruiz Square [Member] | Camarillo, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	159
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				6,871
Buildings and improvements				26,119
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				1,886
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				6,931
Buildings and improvements				27,945
Total	$ 34,876			34,876
Accumulated depreciation	$ (10,569)			(10,569)
Date of construction	1,990
Date acquired	Dec06
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 34,876
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 10,569
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Camino Ruiz Square [Member] | Camarillo, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Camino Ruiz Square [Member] | Camarillo, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Canyon Oaks [Member] | San Ramon, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	250
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				19,088
Buildings and improvements				44,473
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				3,404
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				19,088
Buildings and improvements				47,877
Total	$ 66,965			66,965
Accumulated depreciation	$ (17,672)			(17,672)
Date of construction	2,005
Date acquired	May07
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 66,965
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 17,672
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Canyon Oaks [Member] | San Ramon, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Canyon Oaks [Member] | San Ramon, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Canyon Pointe [Member] | Bothell, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	250
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				4,692
Buildings and improvements				18,288
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				7,017
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				4,693
Buildings and improvements				25,304
Total	$ 29,997			29,997
Accumulated depreciation	$ (13,092)			(13,092)
Date of construction	1,990
Date acquired	Oct03
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 29,997
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 13,092
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Canyon Pointe [Member] | Bothell, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Canyon Pointe [Member] | Bothell, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Capri at Sunny Hills [Member] | Fullerton, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	102
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				3,337
Buildings and improvements				13,320
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				9,040
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				4,048
Buildings and improvements				21,649
Total	$ 25,697			25,697
Accumulated depreciation	$ (12,460)			(12,460)
Date of construction	1,961
Date acquired	Sep01
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 25,697
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 12,460
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Capri at Sunny Hills [Member] | Fullerton, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Capri at Sunny Hills [Member] | Fullerton, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Carnel Landing [Member] | San Diego, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	356
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				16,725
Buildings and improvements				66,901
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				6,128
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				16,725
Buildings and improvements				73,029
Total	$ 89,754			89,754
Accumulated depreciation	$ (10,364)			(10,364)
Date of construction	1,989
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 89,754
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 10,364
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Carnel Landing [Member] | San Diego, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Carnel Landing [Member] | San Diego, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Carnel Summit [Member] | San Diego, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	246
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				14,968
Buildings and improvements				59,871
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				2,886
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				14,968
Buildings and improvements				62,757
Total	$ 77,725			77,725
Accumulated depreciation	$ (8,747)			(8,747)
Date of construction	1,989
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 77,725
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 8,747
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Carnel Summit [Member] | San Diego, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Carnel Summit [Member] | San Diego, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Castle Creek [Member] | New Castle, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	216
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				4,149
Buildings and improvements				16,028
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				3,760
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				4,833
Buildings and improvements				19,104
Total	$ 23,937			23,937
Accumulated depreciation	$ (13,088)			(13,088)
Date of construction	1,998
Date acquired	Dec98
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 23,937
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 13,088
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Castle Creek [Member] | New Castle, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Castle Creek [Member] | New Castle, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Catalina Gardens [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	128
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				6,714
Buildings and improvements				26,856
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				1,043
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				6,714
Buildings and improvements				27,899
Total	$ 34,613			34,613
Accumulated depreciation	$ (3,890)			(3,890)
Date of construction	1,987
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 34,613
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 3,890
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Catalina Gardens [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Catalina Gardens [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | CBC Apartments [Member] | Goleta, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	239
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				11,841
Buildings and improvements				45,320
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				6,162
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				11,906
Buildings and improvements				51,417
Total	$ 63,323			63,323
Accumulated depreciation	$ (22,887)			(22,887)
Date of construction	1,962
Date acquired	Jan06
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 63,323
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 22,887
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | CBC Apartments [Member] | Goleta, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | CBC Apartments [Member] | Goleta, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Cedar Terrace [Member] | Bellevue, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	180
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				5,543
Buildings and improvements				16,442
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				5,923
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				5,652
Buildings and improvements				22,256
Total	$ 27,908			27,908
Accumulated depreciation	$ (10,561)			(10,561)
Date of construction	1,984
Date acquired	Jan05
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 27,908
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 10,561
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Cedar Terrace [Member] | Bellevue, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Cedar Terrace [Member] | Bellevue, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | CentrePointe [Member] | San Diego, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	224
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				3,405
Buildings and improvements				7,743
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				21,252
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				3,442
Buildings and improvements				28,958
Total	$ 32,400			32,400
Accumulated depreciation	$ (16,021)			(16,021)
Date of construction	1,974
Date acquired	Jun97
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 32,400
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 16,021
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | CentrePointe [Member] | San Diego, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | CentrePointe [Member] | San Diego, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Chestnut Street [Member] | Santa Cruz, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	96
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				6,582
Buildings and improvements				15,689
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				1,750
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				6,582
Buildings and improvements				17,439
Total	$ 24,021			24,021
Accumulated depreciation	$ (5,821)			(5,821)
Date of construction	2,002
Date acquired	Jul08
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 24,021
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 5,821
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Chestnut Street [Member] | Santa Cruz, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Chestnut Street [Member] | Santa Cruz, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Collins On Pine [Member] | Seattle, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	76
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				7,276
Buildings and improvements				22,226
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				262
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				7,276
Buildings and improvements				22,488
Total	$ 29,764			29,764
Accumulated depreciation	$ (2,737)			(2,737)
Date of construction	2,013
Date acquired	May14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 29,764
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 2,737
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Collins On Pine [Member] | Seattle, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Collins On Pine [Member] | Seattle, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Corbella at Juanita Bay [Member] | Kirkland, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	169
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				5,801
Buildings and improvements				17,415
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				2,603
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				5,801
Buildings and improvements				20,018
Total	$ 25,819			25,819
Accumulated depreciation	$ (5,368)			(5,368)
Date of construction	1,978
Date acquired	Nov10
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 25,819
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 5,368
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Corbella at Juanita Bay [Member] | Kirkland, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Corbella at Juanita Bay [Member] | Kirkland, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Cortesia [Member] | Rancho Santa Margarita, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	308
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				13,912
Buildings and improvements				55,649
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				1,958
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				13,912
Buildings and improvements				57,607
Total	$ 71,519			71,519
Accumulated depreciation	$ (8,058)			(8,058)
Date of construction	1,999
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 71,519
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 8,058
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Cortesia [Member] | Rancho Santa Margarita, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Cortesia [Member] | Rancho Santa Margarita, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Country Villas [Member] | Oceanside, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	180
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				4,174
Buildings and improvements				16,583
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				4,772
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				4,187
Buildings and improvements				21,342
Total	$ 25,529			25,529
Accumulated depreciation	$ (11,005)			(11,005)
Date of construction	1,976
Date acquired	Dec02
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 25,529
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 11,005
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Country Villas [Member] | Oceanside, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Country Villas [Member] | Oceanside, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Crow Canyon [Member] | San Ramon, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	400
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				37,579
Buildings and improvements				87,685
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				7,616
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				37,579
Buildings and improvements				95,301
Total	$ 132,880			132,880
Accumulated depreciation	$ (13,111)			(13,111)
Date of construction	1,992
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 132,880
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 13,111
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Crow Canyon [Member] | San Ramon, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Crow Canyon [Member] | San Ramon, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Deer Valley [Member] | San Rafael, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	171
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				21,478
Buildings and improvements				50,116
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				2,113
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				21,478
Buildings and improvements				52,229
Total	$ 73,707			73,707
Accumulated depreciation	$ (7,425)			(7,425)
Date of construction	1,996
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 73,707
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 7,425
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Deer Valley [Member] | San Rafael, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Deer Valley [Member] | San Rafael, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Delano [Member] | Redmond, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	126
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				7,470
Buildings and improvements				22,511
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				1,167
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				7,470
Buildings and improvements				23,678
Total	$ 31,148			31,148
Accumulated depreciation	$ (4,984)			(4,984)
Date of construction	2,005
Date acquired	Dec11
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 31,148
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 4,984
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Delano [Member] | Redmond, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Delano [Member] | Redmond, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Devonshire [Member] | Hemet, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	276
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				3,470
Buildings and improvements				13,786
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				3,935
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				3,482
Buildings and improvements				17,709
Total	$ 21,191			21,191
Accumulated depreciation	$ (9,455)			(9,455)
Date of construction	1,988
Date acquired	Dec02
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 21,191
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 9,455
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Devonshire [Member] | Hemet, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Devonshire [Member] | Hemet, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Domain [Member] | San Diego, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	379
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				23,848
Buildings and improvements				95,394
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				1,298
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				23,848
Buildings and improvements				96,692
Total	$ 120,540			120,540
Accumulated depreciation	$ (13,510)			(13,510)
Date of construction	2,013
Date acquired	Nov13
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 120,540
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 13,510
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Domain [Member] | San Diego, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Domain [Member] | San Diego, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Emerald Pointe [Member] | Diamond Bar, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	160
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				8,458
Buildings and improvements				33,832
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				1,468
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				8,458
Buildings and improvements				35,300
Total	$ 43,758			43,758
Accumulated depreciation	$ (5,018)			(5,018)
Date of construction	1,989
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 43,758
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 5,018
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Emerald Pointe [Member] | Diamond Bar, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Emerald Pointe [Member] | Diamond Bar, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Emerald Ridge [Member] | Bellevue, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	180
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				3,449
Buildings and improvements				7,801
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				5,199
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				3,449
Buildings and improvements				13,000
Total	$ 16,449			16,449
Accumulated depreciation	$ (9,551)			(9,551)
Date of construction	1,987
Date acquired	Nov94
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 16,449
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 9,551
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Emerald Ridge [Member] | Bellevue, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Emerald Ridge [Member] | Bellevue, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Emerson Valley Village [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	144
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				13,378
Buildings and improvements				53,240
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				284
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				13,378
Buildings and improvements				53,524
Total	$ 66,902			66,902
Accumulated depreciation	$ (1,953)			(1,953)
Date of construction	2,012
Date acquired	Dec16
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 66,902
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 1,953
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Emerson Valley Village [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Emerson Valley Village [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Enso [Member] | San Jose, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	183
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				21,397
Buildings and improvements				71,135
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				1,153
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				21,397
Buildings and improvements				72,288
Total	$ 93,685			93,685
Accumulated depreciation	$ (5,238)			(5,238)
Date of construction	2,014
Date acquired	Dec15
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 93,685
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 5,238
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Enso [Member] | San Jose, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Enso [Member] | San Jose, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Esplanade [Member] | San Jose, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	278
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				18,170
Buildings and improvements				40,086
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				11,945
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				18,429
Buildings and improvements				51,772
Total	$ 70,201			70,201
Accumulated depreciation	$ (24,281)			(24,281)
Date of construction	2,002
Date acquired	Apr04
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 70,201
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 24,281
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Esplanade [Member] | San Jose, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Esplanade [Member] | San Jose, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Essex Skyline [Member] | Santa Ana, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	349
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				21,537
Buildings and improvements				146,099
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				6,340
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				21,537
Buildings and improvements				152,439
Total	$ 173,976			173,976
Accumulated depreciation	$ (29,843)			(29,843)
Date of construction	2,008
Date acquired	Apr10
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 173,976
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 29,843
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Essex Skyline [Member] | Santa Ana, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Essex Skyline [Member] | Santa Ana, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Evergreen Heights [Member] | Kirkland, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	200
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				3,566
Buildings and improvements				13,395
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				5,345
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				3,649
Buildings and improvements				18,657
Total	$ 22,306			22,306
Accumulated depreciation	$ (12,816)			(12,816)
Date of construction	1,990
Date acquired	Jun97
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 22,306
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 12,816
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Evergreen Heights [Member] | Kirkland, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Evergreen Heights [Member] | Kirkland, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Fairway Apartments at Big Canyon [Member] | Newport Beach, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	74
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				0
Buildings and improvements				7,850
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				7,583
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				0
Buildings and improvements				15,433
Total	$ 15,433			15,433
Accumulated depreciation	$ (9,692)			(9,692)
Date of construction	1,972
Date acquired	Jun99
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 15,433
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 9,692
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Fairway Apartments at Big Canyon [Member] | Newport Beach, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Fairway Apartments at Big Canyon [Member] | Newport Beach, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	28 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Fairwood Pond [Member] | Renton, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	194
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				5,296
Buildings and improvements				15,564
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				3,122
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				5,297
Buildings and improvements				18,685
Total	$ 23,982			23,982
Accumulated depreciation	$ (8,928)			(8,928)
Date of construction	1,997
Date acquired	Oct04
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 23,982
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 8,928
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Fairwood Pond [Member] | Renton, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Fairwood Pond [Member] | Renton, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Foothill Commons [Member] | Bellevue, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	394
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				2,435
Buildings and improvements				9,821
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				39,142
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				2,440
Buildings and improvements				48,958
Total	$ 51,398			51,398
Accumulated depreciation	$ (38,723)			(38,723)
Date of construction	1,978
Date acquired	Mar90
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 51,398
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 38,723
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Foothill Commons [Member] | Bellevue, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Foothill Commons [Member] | Bellevue, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Foothill Gardens/Twin Creeks [Member] | San Ramon, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	176
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				5,875
Buildings and improvements				13,992
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				10,086
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				5,964
Buildings and improvements				23,989
Total	$ 29,953			29,953
Accumulated depreciation	$ (15,203)			(15,203)
Date of construction	1,985
Date acquired	Feb97
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 29,953
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 15,203
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Foothill Gardens/Twin Creeks [Member] | San Ramon, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Foothill Gardens/Twin Creeks [Member] | San Ramon, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Forest View [Member] | Renton, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	192
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				3,731
Buildings and improvements				14,530
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				2,362
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				3,731
Buildings and improvements				16,892
Total	$ 20,623			20,623
Accumulated depreciation	$ (8,351)			(8,351)
Date of construction	1,998
Date acquired	Oct03
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 20,623
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 8,351
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Forest View [Member] | Renton, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Forest View [Member] | Renton, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Fountain Court [Member] | Seattle, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	320
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				6,702
Buildings and improvements				27,306
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				11,409
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				6,585
Buildings and improvements				38,832
Total	$ 45,417			45,417
Accumulated depreciation	$ (23,649)			(23,649)
Date of construction	2,000
Date acquired	Mar00
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 45,417
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 23,649
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Fountain Court [Member] | Seattle, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Fountain Court [Member] | Seattle, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Fourth & U [Member] | Berkeley, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	171
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				8,879
Buildings and improvements				52,351
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				2,775
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				8,879
Buildings and improvements				55,126
Total	$ 64,005			64,005
Accumulated depreciation	$ (15,677)			(15,677)
Date of construction	2,010
Date acquired	Apr10
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 64,005
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 15,677
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Fourth & U [Member] | Berkeley, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Fourth & U [Member] | Berkeley, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Fox Plaza [Member] | San Francisco, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	444
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				39,731
Buildings and improvements				92,706
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				20,638
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				39,731
Buildings and improvements				113,344
Total	$ 153,075			153,075
Accumulated depreciation	$ (21,219)			(21,219)
Date of construction	1,968
Date acquired	Feb13
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 153,075
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 21,219
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Fox Plaza [Member] | San Francisco, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Fox Plaza [Member] | San Francisco, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Hampton Place Hampton Court [Member] | Glendale, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	215
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				6,695
Buildings and improvements				16,753
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				24,885
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				6,733
Buildings and improvements				41,600
Total	$ 48,333			48,333
Accumulated depreciation	$ (18,798)			(18,798)
Date of construction	1,970
Date acquired	Jun99
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 48,333
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 18,798
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Hampton Place Hampton Court [Member] | Glendale, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Hampton Place Hampton Court [Member] | Glendale, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Hillsdale Garden Apartments [Member] | San Mateo, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	697
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				22,000
Buildings and improvements				94,681
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				22,145
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				22,000
Buildings and improvements				116,826
Total	$ 138,826			138,826
Accumulated depreciation	$ (49,216)			(49,216)
Date of construction	1,948
Date acquired	Sep06
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 138,826
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 49,216
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Hillsdale Garden Apartments [Member] | San Mateo, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Hillsdale Garden Apartments [Member] | San Mateo, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Hope Ranch Collection [Member] | Santa Barbara, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	108
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				4,078
Buildings and improvements				16,877
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				2,825
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				4,208
Buildings and improvements				19,572
Total	$ 23,780			23,780
Accumulated depreciation	$ (7,105)			(7,105)
Date of construction	1,965
Date acquired	Mar07
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 23,780
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 7,105
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Hope Ranch Collection [Member] | Santa Barbara, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Hope Ranch Collection [Member] | Santa Barbara, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Joule [Member] | Seattle, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	295
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				14,558
Buildings and improvements				69,417
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				4,295
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				14,558
Buildings and improvements				73,712
Total	$ 88,270			88,270
Accumulated depreciation	$ (21,397)			(21,397)
Date of construction	2,010
Date acquired	Mar10
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 88,270
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 21,397
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Joule [Member] | Seattle, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Joule [Member] | Seattle, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Kings Road [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	196
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				4,023
Buildings and improvements				9,527
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				14,593
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				4,031
Buildings and improvements				24,112
Total	$ 28,143			28,143
Accumulated depreciation	$ (14,090)			(14,090)
Date of construction	1,979
Date acquired	Jun97
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 28,143
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 14,090
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Kings Road [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Kings Road [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Lafayette Highlands [Member] | Lafayette, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	150
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				17,774
Buildings and improvements				41,473
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				2,065
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				17,774
Buildings and improvements				43,538
Total	$ 61,312			61,312
Accumulated depreciation	$ (6,023)			(6,023)
Date of construction	1,973
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 61,312
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 6,023
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Lafayette Highlands [Member] | Lafayette, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Lafayette Highlands [Member] | Lafayette, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Lakeshore Landing [Member] | San Mateo, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	308
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				38,155
Buildings and improvements				89,028
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				5,920
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				38,155
Buildings and improvements				94,948
Total	$ 133,103			133,103
Accumulated depreciation	$ (14,103)			(14,103)
Date of construction	1,988
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 133,103
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 14,103
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Lakeshore Landing [Member] | San Mateo, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Lakeshore Landing [Member] | San Mateo, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Laurels at Mill Creek [Member] | Mill Creek, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	164
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				1,559
Buildings and improvements				6,430
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				6,231
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				1,595
Buildings and improvements				12,625
Total	$ 14,220			14,220
Accumulated depreciation	$ (9,082)			(9,082)
Date of construction	1,981
Date acquired	Dec96
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 14,220
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 9,082
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Laurels at Mill Creek [Member] | Mill Creek, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Laurels at Mill Creek [Member] | Mill Creek, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Lawrence Station [Member] | Sunnyvale, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	336
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				45,532
Buildings and improvements				106,735
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				1,100
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				45,532
Buildings and improvements				107,835
Total	$ 153,367			153,367
Accumulated depreciation	$ (18,224)			(18,224)
Date of construction	2,012
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 153,367
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 18,224
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Lawrence Station [Member] | Sunnyvale, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Lawrence Station [Member] | Sunnyvale, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Le Parc [Member] | Santa Clara, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	140
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				3,090
Buildings and improvements				7,421
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				11,787
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				3,092
Buildings and improvements				19,206
Total	$ 22,298			22,298
Accumulated depreciation	$ (14,464)			(14,464)
Date of construction	1,975
Date acquired	Feb94
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 22,298
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 14,464
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Le Parc [Member] | Santa Clara, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Le Parc [Member] | Santa Clara, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Marbrisa [Member] | Long Beach, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	202
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				4,700
Buildings and improvements				18,605
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				8,640
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				4,760
Buildings and improvements				27,185
Total	$ 31,945			31,945
Accumulated depreciation	$ (13,889)			(13,889)
Date of construction	1,987
Date acquired	Sep02
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 31,945
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 13,889
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Marbrisa [Member] | Long Beach, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Marbrisa [Member] | Long Beach, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Marina City Club [Member] | Marina Del Rey, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	101
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				0
Buildings and improvements				28,167
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				27,613
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				0
Buildings and improvements				55,780
Total	$ 55,780			55,780
Accumulated depreciation	$ (23,105)			(23,105)
Date of construction	1,971
Date acquired	Jan04
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 55,780
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 23,105
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Marina City Club [Member] | Marina Del Rey, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Marina City Club [Member] | Marina Del Rey, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Marina Cove [Member] | Santa Clara, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	292
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				5,320
Buildings and improvements				16,431
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				14,699
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				5,324
Buildings and improvements				31,126
Total	$ 36,450			36,450
Accumulated depreciation	$ (22,342)			(22,342)
Date of construction	1,974
Date acquired	Jun94
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 36,450
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 22,342
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Marina Cove [Member] | Santa Clara, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Marina Cove [Member] | Santa Clara, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Mariner's Place [Member] | Oxnard, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	105
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				1,555
Buildings and improvements				6,103
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				2,314
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				1,562
Buildings and improvements				8,410
Total	$ 9,972			9,972
Accumulated depreciation	$ (5,316)			(5,316)
Date of construction	1,987
Date acquired	May00
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 9,972
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 5,316
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Mariner's Place [Member] | Oxnard, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Mariner's Place [Member] | Oxnard, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | MB 360 [Member] | San Francisco, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	360
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				21,421
Buildings and improvements				114,376
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				122,654
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				42,001
Buildings and improvements				216,450
Total	$ 258,451			258,451
Accumulated depreciation	$ (21,619)			(21,619)
Date of construction	2,014
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 258,451
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 21,619
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | MB 360 [Member] | San Francisco, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | MB 360 [Member] | San Francisco, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Mesa Village [Member] | Clairemont, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	133
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				1,888
Buildings and improvements				7,498
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				1,730
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				1,894
Buildings and improvements				9,222
Total	$ 11,116			11,116
Accumulated depreciation	$ (4,691)			(4,691)
Date of construction	1,963
Date acquired	Dec02
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 11,116
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 4,691
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Mesa Village [Member] | Clairemont, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Mesa Village [Member] | Clairemont, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Mio [Member] | San Jose, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	103
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				11,012
Buildings and improvements				39,982
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				367
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				11,012
Buildings and improvements				40,349
Total	$ 51,361			51,361
Accumulated depreciation	$ (2,786)			(2,786)
Date of construction	2,015
Date acquired	Jan16
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 51,361
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 2,786
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Mio [Member] | San Jose, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Mio [Member] | San Jose, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Mira Monte [Member] | Mira Mesa, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	354
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				7,165
Buildings and improvements				28,459
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				10,588
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				7,186
Buildings and improvements				39,026
Total	$ 46,212			46,212
Accumulated depreciation	$ (22,220)			(22,220)
Date of construction	1,982
Date acquired	Dec02
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 46,212
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 22,220
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Mira Monte [Member] | Mira Mesa, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Mira Monte [Member] | Mira Mesa, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Miracle Mile Marbella [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	236
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				7,791
Buildings and improvements				23,075
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				14,330
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				7,886
Buildings and improvements				37,310
Total	$ 45,196			45,196
Accumulated depreciation	$ (24,621)			(24,621)
Date of construction	1,988
Date acquired	Aug97
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 45,196
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 24,621
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Miracle Mile Marbella [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Miracle Mile Marbella [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Mission Hills [Member] | Oceanside, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	282
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				10,099
Buildings and improvements				38,778
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				6,780
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				10,167
Buildings and improvements				45,490
Total	$ 55,657			55,657
Accumulated depreciation	$ (20,326)			(20,326)
Date of construction	1,984
Date acquired	Jul05
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 55,657
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 20,326
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Mission Hills [Member] | Oceanside, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Mission Hills [Member] | Oceanside, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Mission Peaks [Member] | Fremont, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	453
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				46,499
Buildings and improvements				108,498
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				3,457
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				46,499
Buildings and improvements				111,955
Total	$ 158,454			158,454
Accumulated depreciation	$ (15,669)			(15,669)
Date of construction	1,995
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 158,454
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 15,669
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Mission Peaks [Member] | Fremont, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Mission Peaks [Member] | Fremont, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Mission Peaks II [Member] | Fremont, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	336
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				31,429
Buildings and improvements				73,334
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				4,469
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				31,429
Buildings and improvements				77,803
Total	$ 109,232			109,232
Accumulated depreciation	$ (11,188)			(11,188)
Date of construction	1,989
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 109,232
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 11,188
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Mission Peaks II [Member] | Fremont, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Mission Peaks II [Member] | Fremont, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Monterey Villas [Member] | Oxnard, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	122
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				2,349
Buildings and improvements				5,579
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				6,410
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				2,424
Buildings and improvements				11,914
Total	$ 14,338			14,338
Accumulated depreciation	$ (7,386)			(7,386)
Date of construction	1,974
Date acquired	Jul97
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 14,338
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 7,386
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Monterey Villas [Member] | Oxnard, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Monterey Villas [Member] | Oxnard, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Muse [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	152
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				7,822
Buildings and improvements				33,436
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				2,724
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				7,823
Buildings and improvements				36,159
Total	$ 43,982			43,982
Accumulated depreciation	$ (11,275)			(11,275)
Date of construction	2,011
Date acquired	Feb11
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 43,982
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 11,275
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Muse [Member] | Hollywood, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Muse [Member] | Hollywood, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Museum Park [Member] | San Jose, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	117
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				13,864
Buildings and improvements				32,348
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				1,236
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				13,864
Buildings and improvements				33,584
Total	$ 47,448			47,448
Accumulated depreciation	$ (4,777)			(4,777)
Date of construction	2,002
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 47,448
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 4,777
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Museum Park [Member] | San Jose, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Museum Park [Member] | San Jose, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Membership Interest In Palm Valley [Member] | San Jose, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	1,098
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				133,802
Buildings and improvements				312,205
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				2,035
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				133,802
Buildings and improvements				314,240
Total	$ 448,042			448,042
Accumulated depreciation	$ (10,741)			(10,741)
Date of construction	2,008
Date acquired	Jan17
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 448,042
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 10,741
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Membership Interest In Palm Valley [Member] | San Jose, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Membership Interest In Palm Valley [Member] | San Jose, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Paragon Apartments [Member] | Fremont, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	301
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				32,230
Buildings and improvements				77,320
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				1,367
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				32,230
Buildings and improvements				78,687
Total	$ 110,917			110,917
Accumulated depreciation	$ (9,136)			(9,136)
Date of construction	2,013
Date acquired	Jul14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 110,917
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 9,136
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Paragon Apartments [Member] | Fremont, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Paragon Apartments [Member] | Fremont, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Park Catalina [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	90
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				4,710
Buildings and improvements				18,839
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				3,068
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				4,710
Buildings and improvements				21,907
Total	$ 26,617			26,617
Accumulated depreciation	$ (4,823)			(4,823)
Date of construction	2,002
Date acquired	Jun12
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 26,617
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 4,823
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Park Catalina [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Park Catalina [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Park Viridian [Member] | Anaheim, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	320
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				15,894
Buildings and improvements				63,574
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				3,023
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				15,894
Buildings and improvements				66,597
Total	$ 82,491			82,491
Accumulated depreciation	$ (9,304)			(9,304)
Date of construction	2,008
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 82,491
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 9,304
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Park Viridian [Member] | Anaheim, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Park Viridian [Member] | Anaheim, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Park West [Member] | San Francisco, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	126
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				9,424
Buildings and improvements				21,988
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				11,930
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				9,424
Buildings and improvements				33,918
Total	$ 43,342			43,342
Accumulated depreciation	$ (7,730)			(7,730)
Date of construction	1,958
Date acquired	Sep12
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 43,342
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 7,730
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Park West [Member] | San Francisco, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Park West [Member] | San Francisco, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Parkwood at Mill Creek [Member] | Mill Creek, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	240
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				10,680
Buildings and improvements				42,722
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				2,441
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				10,680
Buildings and improvements				45,163
Total	$ 55,843			55,843
Accumulated depreciation	$ (6,492)			(6,492)
Date of construction	1,989
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 55,843
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 6,492
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Parkwood at Mill Creek [Member] | Mill Creek, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Parkwood at Mill Creek [Member] | Mill Creek, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Pathways at Bixby Village [Member] | Long Beach, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	296
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				4,083
Buildings and improvements				16,757
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				20,235
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				6,239
Buildings and improvements				34,836
Total	$ 41,075			41,075
Accumulated depreciation	$ (29,186)			(29,186)
Date of construction	1,975
Date acquired	Feb91
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 41,075
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 29,186
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Pathways at Bixby Village [Member] | Long Beach, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Pathways at Bixby Village [Member] | Long Beach, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Piedmont [Member] | Bellevue, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	396
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				19,848
Buildings and improvements				59,606
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				11,186
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				19,848
Buildings and improvements				70,792
Total	$ 90,640			90,640
Accumulated depreciation	$ (9,660)			(9,660)
Date of construction	1,969
Date acquired	May14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 90,640
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 9,660
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Piedmont [Member] | Bellevue, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Piedmont [Member] | Bellevue, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Pinehurst [Member] | Ventura, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	28
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				0
Buildings and improvements				1,711
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				548
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				0
Buildings and improvements				2,259
Total	$ 2,259			2,259
Accumulated depreciation	$ (1,249)			(1,249)
Date of construction	1,973
Date acquired	Dec04
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 2,259
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 1,249
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Pinehurst [Member] | Ventura, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Pinehurst [Member] | Ventura, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	24 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Pinnacle Sonata [Member] | Bothell, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	268
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				14,647
Buildings and improvements				58,586
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				2,602
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				14,647
Buildings and improvements				61,188
Total	$ 75,835			75,835
Accumulated depreciation	$ (8,496)			(8,496)
Date of construction	2,000
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 75,835
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 8,496
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Pinnacle Sonata [Member] | Bothell, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Pinnacle Sonata [Member] | Bothell, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Pointe at Cupertinoe [Member] | Cupertino, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	116
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				4,505
Buildings and improvements				17,605
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				11,908
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				4,505
Buildings and improvements				29,513
Total	$ 34,018			34,018
Accumulated depreciation	$ (15,789)			(15,789)
Date of construction	1,963
Date acquired	Aug98
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 34,018
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 15,789
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Pointe at Cupertinoe [Member] | Cupertino, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Pointe at Cupertinoe [Member] | Cupertino, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Radius [Member] | Redwood City, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	264
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				11,702
Buildings and improvements				152,336
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				18
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				11,702
Buildings and improvements				152,354
Total	$ 164,056			164,056
Accumulated depreciation	$ (20,701)			(20,701)
Date of construction	2,015
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 164,056
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 20,701
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Radius [Member] | Redwood City, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Radius [Member] | Redwood City, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Reed Square [Member] | Sunnyvale, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	100
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				6,873
Buildings and improvements				16,037
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				8,023
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				6,873
Buildings and improvements				24,060
Total	$ 30,933			30,933
Accumulated depreciation	$ (7,372)			(7,372)
Date of construction	1,970
Date acquired	Jan12
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 30,933
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 7,372
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Reed Square [Member] | Sunnyvale, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Reed Square [Member] | Sunnyvale, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Regency at Encino [Member] | Encino, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	75
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				3,184
Buildings and improvements				12,737
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				3,312
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				3,184
Buildings and improvements				16,049
Total	$ 19,233			19,233
Accumulated depreciation	$ (5,377)			(5,377)
Date of construction	1,989
Date acquired	Dec09
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 19,233
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 5,377
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Regency at Encino [Member] | Encino, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Regency at Encino [Member] | Encino, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Renaissance at Uptown Orange [Member] | Orange, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	460
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				27,870
Buildings and improvements				111,482
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				4,122
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				27,870
Buildings and improvements				115,604
Total	$ 143,474			143,474
Accumulated depreciation	$ (16,189)			(16,189)
Date of construction	2,007
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 143,474
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 16,189
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Renaissance at Uptown Orange [Member] | Orange, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Renaissance at Uptown Orange [Member] | Orange, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Reveal [Member] | Woodland Hills, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	438
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				25,073
Buildings and improvements				121,314
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				1,104
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				25,073
Buildings and improvements				122,418
Total	$ 147,491			147,491
Accumulated depreciation	$ (12,990)			(12,990)
Date of construction	2,010
Date acquired	Apr15
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 147,491
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 12,990
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Reveal [Member] | Woodland Hills, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Reveal [Member] | Woodland Hills, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Salmon Run at Perry Creek [Member] | Bothell, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	132
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				3,717
Buildings and improvements				11,483
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				2,018
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				3,801
Buildings and improvements				13,417
Total	$ 17,218			17,218
Accumulated depreciation	$ (7,639)			(7,639)
Date of construction	2,000
Date acquired	Oct00
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 17,218
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 7,639
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Salmon Run at Perry Creek [Member] | Bothell, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Salmon Run at Perry Creek [Member] | Bothell, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Sammamish View [Member] | Bellevue, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	153
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				3,324
Buildings and improvements				7,501
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				6,660
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				3,331
Buildings and improvements				14,154
Total	$ 17,485			17,485
Accumulated depreciation	$ (11,623)			(11,623)
Date of construction	1,986
Date acquired	Nov94
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 17,485
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 11,623
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Sammamish View [Member] | Bellevue, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Sammamish View [Member] | Bellevue, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | 101 San Fernando [Member] | San Jose, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	323
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				4,173
Buildings and improvements				58,961
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				10,473
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				4,173
Buildings and improvements				69,434
Total	$ 73,607			73,607
Accumulated depreciation	$ (20,152)			(20,152)
Date of construction	2,001
Date acquired	Jul10
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 73,607
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 20,152
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | 101 San Fernando [Member] | San Jose, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | 101 San Fernando [Member] | San Jose, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | San Marcos [Member] | Richmond, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	432
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				15,563
Buildings and improvements				36,204
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				30,439
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				22,866
Buildings and improvements				59,340
Total	$ 82,206			82,206
Accumulated depreciation	$ (28,461)			(28,461)
Date of construction	2,003
Date acquired	Nov03
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 82,206
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 28,461
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | San Marcos [Member] | Richmond, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | San Marcos [Member] | Richmond, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Santee Court/Santee Village [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	238
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				9,581
Buildings and improvements				40,317
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				6,383
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				9,582
Buildings and improvements				46,699
Total	$ 56,281			56,281
Accumulated depreciation	$ (12,474)			(12,474)
Date of construction	2,004
Date acquired	Oct10
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 56,281
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 12,474
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Santee Court/Santee Village [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Santee Court/Santee Village [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Shadow Point [Member] | Spring Valley, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	172
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				2,812
Buildings and improvements				11,170
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				3,407
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				2,820
Buildings and improvements				14,569
Total	$ 17,389			17,389
Accumulated depreciation	$ (7,412)			(7,412)
Date of construction	1,983
Date acquired	Dec02
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 17,389
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 7,412
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Shadow Point [Member] | Spring Valley, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Shadow Point [Member] | Spring Valley, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Shadowbrook [Member] | Redmond, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	418
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				19,292
Buildings and improvements				77,168
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				3,892
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				19,292
Buildings and improvements				81,060
Total	$ 100,352			100,352
Accumulated depreciation	$ (11,419)			(11,419)
Date of construction	1,986
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 100,352
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 11,419
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Shadowbrook [Member] | Redmond, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Shadowbrook [Member] | Redmond, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Slater 116 [Member] | Kirkland, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	108
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				7,379
Buildings and improvements				22,138
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				709
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				7,379
Buildings and improvements				22,847
Total	$ 30,226			30,226
Accumulated depreciation	$ (3,446)			(3,446)
Date of construction	2,013
Date acquired	Sep13
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 30,226
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 3,446
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Slater 116 [Member] | Kirkland, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Slater 116 [Member] | Kirkland, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Solstice [Member] | Sunnyvale, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	280
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				34,444
Buildings and improvements				147,262
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				4,598
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				34,444
Buildings and improvements				151,860
Total	$ 186,304			186,304
Accumulated depreciation	$ (24,629)			(24,629)
Date of construction	2,014
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 186,304
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 24,629
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Solstice [Member] | Sunnyvale, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Solstice [Member] | Sunnyvale, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Stonehedge Village [Member] | Bothell, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	196
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				3,167
Buildings and improvements				12,603
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				6,516
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				3,201
Buildings and improvements				19,085
Total	$ 22,286			22,286
Accumulated depreciation	$ (12,875)			(12,875)
Date of construction	1,986
Date acquired	Oct97
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 22,286
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 12,875
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Stonehedge Village [Member] | Bothell, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Stonehedge Village [Member] | Bothell, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Summit Park [Member] | San Diego, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	300
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				5,959
Buildings and improvements				23,670
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				5,915
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				5,977
Buildings and improvements				29,567
Total	$ 35,544			35,544
Accumulated depreciation	$ (15,594)			(15,594)
Date of construction	1,972
Date acquired	Dec02
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 35,544
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 15,594
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Summit Park [Member] | San Diego, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Summit Park [Member] | San Diego, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Taylor 28 [Member] | Seattle, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	197
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				13,915
Buildings and improvements				57,700
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				1,892
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				13,915
Buildings and improvements				59,592
Total	$ 73,507			73,507
Accumulated depreciation	$ (8,120)			(8,120)
Date of construction	2,008
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 73,507
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 8,120
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Taylor 28 [Member] | Seattle, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Taylor 28 [Member] | Seattle, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Avery [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	121
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				6,964
Buildings and improvements				29,922
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				299
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				6,964
Buildings and improvements				30,221
Total	$ 37,185			37,185
Accumulated depreciation	$ (3,810)			(3,810)
Date of construction	2,014
Date acquired	Mar14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 37,185
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 3,810
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Avery [Member] | Anaheim, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Avery [Member] | Anaheim, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Cairns [Member] | Seattle, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	99
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				6,937
Buildings and improvements				20,679
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				1,459
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				6,939
Buildings and improvements				22,136
Total	$ 29,075			29,075
Accumulated depreciation	$ (8,056)			(8,056)
Date of construction	2,006
Date acquired	Jun07
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 29,075
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 8,056
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Cairns [Member] | Seattle, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Cairns [Member] | Seattle, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Commons [Member] | Campbell, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	264
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				12,555
Buildings and improvements				29,307
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				7,370
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				12,556
Buildings and improvements				36,676
Total	$ 49,232			49,232
Accumulated depreciation	$ (10,676)			(10,676)
Date of construction	1,973
Date acquired	Jul10
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 49,232
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 10,676
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Commons [Member] | Campbell, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Commons [Member] | Campbell, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Elliot at Mukilteo [Member] | Mukilteo, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	301
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				2,498
Buildings and improvements				10,595
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				15,566
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				2,824
Buildings and improvements				25,835
Total	$ 28,659			28,659
Accumulated depreciation	$ (18,311)			(18,311)
Date of construction	1,981
Date acquired	Jan97
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 28,659
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 18,311
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Elliot at Mukilteo [Member] | Mukilteo, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Elliot at Mukilteo [Member] | Mukilteo, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Grand [Member] | Oakland, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	243
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				4,531
Buildings and improvements				89,208
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				6,100
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				4,531
Buildings and improvements				95,308
Total	$ 99,839			99,839
Accumulated depreciation	$ (30,858)			(30,858)
Date of construction	2,009
Date acquired	Jan09
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 99,839
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 30,858
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Grand [Member] | Oakland, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Grand [Member] | Oakland, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Hallie [Member] | Pasadena, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	292
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				2,202
Buildings and improvements				4,794
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				53,126
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				8,385
Buildings and improvements				51,737
Total	$ 60,122			60,122
Accumulated depreciation	$ (26,284)			(26,284)
Date of construction	1,972
Date acquired	Apr97
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 60,122
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 26,284
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Hallie [Member] | Pasadena, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Hallie [Member] | Pasadena, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Lofts at Pinehurst [Member] | Ventura, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	118
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				1,570
Buildings and improvements				3,912
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				5,029
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				1,618
Buildings and improvements				8,893
Total	$ 10,511			10,511
Accumulated depreciation	$ (5,311)			(5,311)
Date of construction	1,971
Date acquired	Jun97
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 10,511
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 5,311
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Lofts at Pinehurst [Member] | Ventura, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Lofts at Pinehurst [Member] | Ventura, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Stuart [Member] | Pasadena, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	188
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				13,574
Buildings and improvements				54,298
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				2,107
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				13,574
Buildings and improvements				56,405
Total	$ 69,979			69,979
Accumulated depreciation	$ (8,211)			(8,211)
Date of construction	2,007
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 69,979
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 8,211
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Stuart [Member] | Pasadena, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Stuart [Member] | Pasadena, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Trails of Redmond [Member] | Redmond, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	423
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				21,930
Buildings and improvements				87,720
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				3,693
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				21,930
Buildings and improvements				91,413
Total	$ 113,343			113,343
Accumulated depreciation	$ (12,928)			(12,928)
Date of construction	1,985
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 113,343
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 12,928
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Trails of Redmond [Member] | Redmond, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | The Trails of Redmond [Member] | Redmond, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Tierra Vista [Member] | Oxnard, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	404
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				13,652
Buildings and improvements				53,336
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				4,972
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				13,661
Buildings and improvements				58,299
Total	$ 71,960			71,960
Accumulated depreciation	$ (27,577)			(27,577)
Date of construction	2,001
Date acquired	Jan01
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 71,960
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 27,577
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Tierra Vista [Member] | Oxnard, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Tierra Vista [Member] | Oxnard, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Tiffany Court [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	101
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				6,949
Buildings and improvements				27,796
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				1,541
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				6,949
Buildings and improvements				29,337
Total	$ 36,286			36,286
Accumulated depreciation	$ (4,050)			(4,050)
Date of construction	1,987
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 36,286
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 4,050
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Tiffany Court [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Tiffany Court [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Trabucco Villas [Member] | Lake Forest, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	132
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				3,638
Buildings and improvements				8,640
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				2,916
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				3,890
Buildings and improvements				11,304
Total	$ 15,194			15,194
Accumulated depreciation	$ (7,610)			(7,610)
Date of construction	1,985
Date acquired	Oct97
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 15,194
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 7,610
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Trabucco Villas [Member] | Lake Forest, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Trabucco Villas [Member] | Lake Forest, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Via [Member] | Sunnyvale, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	284
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				22,000
Buildings and improvements				82,270
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				2,338
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				22,016
Buildings and improvements				84,592
Total	$ 106,608			106,608
Accumulated depreciation	$ (21,879)			(21,879)
Date of construction	2,011
Date acquired	Jul11
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 106,608
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 21,879
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Via [Member] | Sunnyvale, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Via [Member] | Sunnyvale, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Villa Siena [Member] | Costa Mesa, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	272
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				13,842
Buildings and improvements				55,367
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				5,382
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				13,842
Buildings and improvements				60,749
Total	$ 74,591			74,591
Accumulated depreciation	$ (8,651)			(8,651)
Date of construction	1,974
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 74,591
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 8,651
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Villa Siena [Member] | Costa Mesa, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Villa Siena [Member] | Costa Mesa, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Village Green [Member] | La Habra, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	272
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				6,488
Buildings and improvements				36,768
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				3,298
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				6,488
Buildings and improvements				40,066
Total	$ 46,554			46,554
Accumulated depreciation	$ (5,852)			(5,852)
Date of construction	1,971
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 46,554
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 5,852
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Village Green [Member] | La Habra, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Village Green [Member] | La Habra, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Vista Belvedere [Member] | Tiburon, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	76
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				5,573
Buildings and improvements				11,901
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				8,575
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				5,573
Buildings and improvements				20,476
Total	$ 26,049			26,049
Accumulated depreciation	$ (9,931)			(9,931)
Date of construction	1,963
Date acquired	Aug04
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 26,049
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 9,931
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Vista Belvedere [Member] | Tiburon, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Vista Belvedere [Member] | Tiburon, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Vox Apartments [Member] | Seattle, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	58
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				5,545
Buildings and improvements				16,635
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				121
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				5,545
Buildings and improvements				16,756
Total	$ 22,301			22,301
Accumulated depreciation	$ (2,360)			(2,360)
Date of construction	2,013
Date acquired	Oct13
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 22,301
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 2,360
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Vox Apartments [Member] | Seattle, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Vox Apartments [Member] | Seattle, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Walnut Heights [Member] | Walnut, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	163
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				4,858
Buildings and improvements				19,168
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				4,734
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				4,887
Buildings and improvements				23,873
Total	$ 28,760			28,760
Accumulated depreciation	$ (11,505)			(11,505)
Date of construction	1,964
Date acquired	Oct03
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 28,760
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 11,505
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Walnut Heights [Member] | Walnut, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Walnut Heights [Member] | Walnut, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Wharfside Pointe [Member] | Seattle, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	155
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				2,245
Buildings and improvements				7,020
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				11,422
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				2,258
Buildings and improvements				18,429
Total	$ 20,687			20,687
Accumulated depreciation	$ (12,639)			(12,639)
Date of construction	1,990
Date acquired	Jun94
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 20,687
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 12,639
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Wharfside Pointe [Member] | Seattle, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Wharfside Pointe [Member] | Seattle, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Willow Lake [Member] | San Jose, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	508
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				43,194
Buildings and improvements				101,030
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				12,392
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				43,194
Buildings and improvements				113,422
Total	$ 156,616			156,616
Accumulated depreciation	$ (21,870)			(21,870)
Date of construction	1,989
Date acquired	Oct12
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 156,616
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 21,870
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Willow Lake [Member] | San Jose, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Willow Lake [Member] | San Jose, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | 5600 Wilshire [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	284
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				30,535
Buildings and improvements				91,604
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				1,828
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				30,535
Buildings and improvements				93,432
Total	$ 123,967			123,967
Accumulated depreciation	$ (13,001)			(13,001)
Date of construction	2,008
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 123,967
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 13,001
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | 5600 Wilshire [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | 5600 Wilshire [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Wilshire La Brea [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	478
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				56,932
Buildings and improvements				211,998
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				8,806
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				56,932
Buildings and improvements				220,804
Total	$ 277,736			277,736
Accumulated depreciation	$ (35,159)			(35,159)
Date of construction	2,014
Date acquired	Apr14
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 277,736
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 35,159
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Wilshire La Brea [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	5 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Wilshire La Brea [Member] | Los Angeles, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Windsor Ridge [Member] | Sunnyvale, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	216
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				4,017
Buildings and improvements				10,315
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				16,224
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				4,021
Buildings and improvements				26,535
Total	$ 30,556			30,556
Accumulated depreciation	$ (19,282)			(19,282)
Date of construction	1,989
Date acquired	Mar89
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 30,556
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 19,282
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Windsor Ridge [Member] | Sunnyvale, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Windsor Ridge [Member] | Sunnyvale, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Woodland Commons [Member] | Bellevue, WA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	302
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				2,040
Buildings and improvements				8,727
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				22,839
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				2,044
Buildings and improvements				31,562
Total	$ 33,606			33,606
Accumulated depreciation	$ (18,755)			(18,755)
Date of construction	1,978
Date acquired	Mar90
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 33,606
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 18,755
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Woodland Commons [Member] | Bellevue, WA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Woodland Commons [Member] | Bellevue, WA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Woodside Village [Member] | Ventura, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Units | apartment	145
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				5,331
Buildings and improvements				21,036
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				3,974
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				5,341
Buildings and improvements				25,000
Total	$ 30,341			30,341
Accumulated depreciation	$ (11,682)			$ (11,682)
Date of construction	1,987
Date acquired	Dec04
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 30,341
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 11,682
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Woodside Village [Member] | Ventura, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Unencumbered Apartment Communities [Member] | Woodside Village [Member] | Ventura, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Other Property [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Area of real estate property | ft²				106,564
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				$ 3,079
Buildings and improvements				12,315
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				8,332
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				4,308
Buildings and improvements				19,418
Total	$ 23,726			23,726
Accumulated depreciation	(13,252)			$ (13,252)
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	23,726
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	13,252
Other Property [Member] | Derian Office Building [Member] | Irvine, CA [Member]
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Area of real estate property | ft²				106,564
Initial cost [Abstract]
Land				$ 3,079
Buildings and improvements				12,315
Costs capitalized subsequent to acquisition				8,332
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Land and improvements				4,308
Buildings and improvements				19,418
Total	23,726			23,726
Accumulated depreciation	$ (13,252)			(13,252)
Date of construction	1,983
Date acquired	Jul00
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 23,726
Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Balance at the end of year	$ 13,252
Other Property [Member] | Derian Office Building [Member] | Irvine, CA [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	3 years
Other Property [Member] | Derian Office Building [Member] | Irvine, CA [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Life Used for Depreciation	30 years
Real Estate, Rental Property [Member]
Gross amount carried at close of period [Abstract]
Total	$ 12,676,306	12,331,469	11,244,681	$ 13,348,831
Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of year	12,676,306	12,331,469	11,244,681
Balance at the end of year	$ 13,348,831	$ 12,676,306	$ 12,331,469