| Document and Entity Information | Nov. 12, 2019 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | Nov. 12, 2019 |
| Entity Registrant Name | APARTMENT INVESTMENT & MANAGEMENT CO |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000922864 |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Entity File Number | 1-13232 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | MD |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 84-1259577 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 4582 SOUTH ULSTER STREET |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | SUITE 1700 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | DENVER |
| Entity Address, State or Province | CO |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 80237 |
| City Area Code | 303 |
| Local Phone Number | 757-8101 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Aimco Investment and Management Company Class A Common Stock |
| Trading Symbol | AIV |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
