Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract] Gross contributions made by the Company Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized Segment Reporting [Abstract] Reconciliation of segment profit (loss) to income (loss) from continuing operations Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Consolidated [Abstract] Segment profit (loss) Segment Profit (Loss) Amount of profit or loss during the period recognized by the reportable segment. Less: (Provision for) recovery of loan losses Provision for Loan Losses Expensed Less: Impairment of assets(4) Segment Asset Impairment Charges Segment Asset Impairment Charges Less: Stock-based compensation expense Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Less: Depreciation and amortization(4) Segment Depreciation and Amortization Segment Depreciation and Amortization Less: Income tax (expense) benefit(4) Segment Income Tax (Benefit) Segment Income Tax (Benefit) Less: Loss on early extinguishment of debt, net Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt Net income (loss) Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Real Estate [Abstract] Schedule of Real Estate Properties [Table] Schedule of Real Estate Properties [Table] Real Estate, Type of Property [Axis] Real Estate, Type of Property [Axis] Real Estate [Domain] Real Estate [Domain] Commercial Operating Properties Commercial Operating Properties [Member] Commercial Operating Properties [Member] Acquisition Type [Axis] Acquisition Type [Axis] Acquisition Type [Axis] Acquisition Type [Domain] Acquisition Type [Domain] Acquisition Type [Domain] Real Estate Acquired in Satisfaction of Debt Real Estate Acquired in Satisfaction of Debt [Member] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Corporate Joint Venture Corporate Joint Venture [Member] Real Estate Properties [Line Items] Real Estate Properties [Line Items] Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Number of Properties Acquired Number of Properties Acquired Number of Properties Acquired Mortgage loans on real estate, foreclosures Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Foreclosures Noncontrolling interest, ownership percentage by parent Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent Joint venture, venture ownership percentage Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Name of Property [Axis] Name of Property [Axis] Name of Property [Domain] Name of Property [Domain] Property One Property One [Member] Property One [Member] Property Two Property Two [Member] Property Two [Member] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum Minimum [Member] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Domain] Variable Rate [Domain] London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] 2012 Tranche A-2 Facility Secured Credit Facilities Tranche A-2 Facility Due March, 2017 [Member] Represents the Secured Tranche A-2 Facility of the entity maturing in March 2017. February 2013 Secured Credit Facility February 2013 Secured Credit Facility [Member] February 2013 Secured Credit Facility [Member] Term loans collateralized by net lease assets Secured Term Loans Collateralized by Loans Net Lease Assets Due Through 2026 [Member] Secured Term Loans Collateralized by net lease assets due through 2026 debt instrument of the entity. Total secured credit facilities and term loans Secured Credit Facilities [Member] Represents the secured credit facility of the entity. Unsecured Notes 6.05% senior notes Unsecured Notes 6 point 05 Percent Senior Notes Due April 2015 [Member] Unsecured Notes 6.05% due April 2015 senior notes debt instrument of the entity. Unsecured Notes 5.875% senior notes Unsecured Notes 5 point 875 Percent Senior Notes Due March 2016 [Member] Unsecured Notes 5.875% due March 2016 senior notes debt instrument of the entity. Unsecured Notes 3.875% senior notes Unsecured Notes 3 point 875 Percent Senior Notes Due July 2016 [Member] Unsecured Notes 3 point 875 Percent Senior Notes Due July 2016 [Member] Senior Convertible 3.0% notes Senior Convertible Three Point Zero Percent Notes Due November 2016 [Member] Senior Convertible Three Point Zero Percent Notes Due November 2016 [Member] Senior Convertible 1.50% notes Senior Convertible One Point 50 Percent Notes Due November 2016 [Member] Senior Convertible One Point 50 Percent Notes Due November 2016 [Member] Unsecured Notes 5.85% senior notes Unsecured Notes 5 point 85 Percent Senior Notes Due March 2017 [Member] Unsecured Notes 5.85% due March 2017 senior notes debt instrument of the entity. Unsecured Notes 9.0% senior notes Unsecured Notes Nine Percent Senior Notes Due June 2017 [Member] Unsecured Notes Nine Percent Senior Notes Due June 2017 [Member] Unsecured Notes 4.00% Senior Notes Due November 2017 Unsecured Notes Four Percent Senior Notes Due November 2017 [Member] Unsecured Notes Four Percent Senior Notes Due November 2017 [Member] Unsecured Notes 7.125% senior notes Unsecured Notes Seven Point One Two Five Percent Senior Notes Due February 2018 [Member] Unsecured Notes Seven Point One Two Five Percent Senior Notes Due February 2018 [Member] Unsecured Notes 4.875% senior notes Unsecured Notes 4 point 875 Percent Senior Notes Due July 2018 [Member] Unsecured Notes 4 point 875 Percent Senior Notes Due July 2018 [Member] Unsecured Notes 5.00% Senior Notes Due July 2019 Unsecured Notes Five Percent Senior Notes Due July 2019 [Member] Unsecured Notes Five Percent Senior Notes Due July 2019 [Member] Unsecured Notes Unsecured Senior Notes [Member] Represents the unsecured senior notes of the entity. Other debt obligations due in October, 2035 Other Debt Securities, Due October 2035 [Member] Represents other debt obligations due in October, 2035. Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Total debt obligations Long-term Debt, Gross Debt discounts, net Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium), Net Total long-term debt obligations, net Long-term Debt Stated interest rate Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Variable interest rate, spread Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate Variable interest rate, basis Debt Instrument, Description of Variable Rate Basis Stated interest rate, minimum Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Minimum Stated interest rate, maximum Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Maximum Convertible debt conversion ratio Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Ratio Equity [Abstract] Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) reflected in the Company's shareholders' equity Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Unrealized losses on available-for-sale securities Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax Unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cumulative Changes in Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges, Effect Net of Tax Unrealized losses on cumulative translation adjustment Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Derivative [Table] Derivative [Table] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Domain] Hedging Designation [Domain] Not designated as hedge Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Contract Type [Domain] Derivative Contract [Domain] Foreign exchange contracts Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Other Expense Other Expense [Member] Derivative, by Nature [Axis] Derivative, by Nature [Axis] Derivative, Name [Domain] Derivative, Name [Domain] Sells INR/Buys USD Forward Sells INR Buys USD Forward [Member] Sells INR Buys USD Forward [Member] Sells euro (EUR)/Buys USD Forward Sells EUR Buys USD Forward [Member] Represents the Sells EUR /Buy USD Forward Foreign currency contract member. Sells pound sterling (GBP)/Buys USD Forward Sells GBP Buys USD Forward [Member] Represents the Sells GBP/ Buy USD Forward Foreign currency contract member. Sells Canadian dollar (CAD)/Buys USD Forward Sells CAD Buys USD Forward [Member] Represents the Sells CAD Buy USD Forward Foreign currency contract member. Interest rate cap Interest Rate Cap [Member] Interest rate swap Interest Rate Swap One [Member] Forward based contracts first in which two parties agree to swap periodic payments that are fixed at the outset of the swap contract with variable payments based on a market interest rate (index rate) over a specified period. Derivative [Line Items] Derivative [Line Items] Notional Amount Derivative, Amount of Hedged Item Maturity Maturity of Foreign Currency Derivatives Fixed Rate Derivative, Cap Interest Rate Variable Rate Derivative, Variable Interest Rate Fixed Rate Derivative, Fixed Interest Rate Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Reconciliation of income (loss) from continuing operations used in the basic and diluted EPS calculations Schedule of Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Used in Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share Calculations [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the reconciliation of income (loss) from continuing operations used in the basic and diluted EPS calculations. Schedule of earnings per share allocable to common shares and HPU shares Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Schedule of anti-dilutive shares Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Unfunded Financial Commitments [Table] Unfunded Financial Commitments [Table] Summarization of information required or determined to be disclosed about arrangements in which the entity has committed to off-balance sheet financial commitments. Unfunded Financial Commitments [Axis] Unfunded Financial Commitments [Axis] Information by arrangements in which the entity has committed to off-balance sheet financial commitments. Unfunded Financial Commitments [Domain] Unfunded Financial Commitments [Domain] This item is intended to be populated, by the entity, with Members identifying each off-balance sheet financial commitment. Loans and Other Lending Investments Loans Receivable [Member] Real Estate Real Estate [Member] Other Investments Other Investments [Member] Unfunded Financial Commitments [Line Items] Unfunded Financial Commitments [Line Items] Performance-Based Commitments Performance-Based Commitments Represents the off-balance sheet unfunded maximum amount of funds for construction and development loans and build-outs of space in net lease assets over a period of time if and when the borrowers and tenants meet established milestones and other performance criteria. Strategic Investments Other Commitments Represents the off-balance sheet maximum other commitments of the entity. Discretionary Fundings Discretionary Fundings Represents the off-balance sheet maximum amount of potential additional fundings which the entity will make available to a borrower or tenant for an expansion or addition to a project if it approves of the expansion or addition at its sole discretion. Total Unfunded Commitments Represents certain off-balance sheet unfunded commitments of the entity. Unsecured Debt Unsecured Debt [Member] Secured Debt Secured Debt [Member] 2014 (remaining six months) Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal, Remainder of Fiscal Year 2015 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two 2016 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three 2017 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four 2018 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five Thereafter Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five Total principal maturities Unamortized debt discounts, net Schedule of unfunded commitments Unfunded Financial Commitments [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of off-balance sheet unfunded financial commitments which includes performance-based commitments, discretionary funding arrangements and strategic investment commitments. Receivables [Abstract] Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table] Loan Payment Extension Period [Axis] Loan Payment Extension Period [Axis] Loan Payment Extension Period [Axis] Loan Payment Extension Period [Domain] Loan Payment Extension Period [Domain] [Domain] for Loan Payment Extension Period [Axis] One Year Payment Extension One Year Payment Extension [Member] One Year Payment Extension [Member] Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Axis] Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Axis] Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Domain] Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Domain] Senior mortgages First Mortgage [Member] Performing senior mortgages Performing First Mortgage [Member] Represents the performing loans secured by real property that have a first (highest) lien on such property in the event of default by the borrower. Non-performing senior mortgages Non-Performing First Mortgage [Member] Represents the non-performing loans secured by real property that have a first (highest) lien on such property in the event of default by the borrower. Repayment of debt Repayment of Debt Instruments [Member] Repayment of Debt Instruments [Member] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] Number of Loans Finance Receivable, Troubled Loans The number of financing receivables that have been modified by troubled debt restructurings. Pre-Modification Outstanding Recorded Investment Financing Receivable, Pre Modification Recorded Investment The amount of the outstanding recorded investment related to financing receivables that have been modified by troubled debt restructurings before the financing receivable has been modified. Post-Modification Outstanding Recorded Investment Financing Receivable, Post Modification Recorded Investment The amount of the outstanding recorded investment related to financing receivables that have been modified by troubled debt restructurings after the financing receivable has been modified. Schedule of Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Credit Quality Indicator [Table] Schedule of Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Credit Quality Indicator [Table] External Credit Rating by Grouping [Axis] External Credit Rating by Grouping [Axis] External Credit Rating by Grouping [Domain] External Credit Rating by Grouping [Domain] Real Estate Finance Performing Financing Receivable [Member] Receivable Type [Axis] Receivable Type [Axis] Receivable [Domain] Receivable [Domain] Subordinate mortgages Second Mortgage [Member] Corporate/Partnership loans Corporate/Partnership Loan [Member] Corporate/Partnership Loan [Member] Recorded Investments in loans, presented by class and by credit quality, as indicated by risk rating Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items] Performing Loans Financing Receivable, Net Weighted Average Risk Ratings Weighted Average Risk Ratings Represents the weighted average risk rating of the instrument. Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Title of Individual [Axis] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Title of Individual [Axis] Reflects the pertinent provisions pertaining to equity-based compensation arrangement, by individual. Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Title of Individual with Relationship to Entity [Domain] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Title of Individual with Relationship to Entity [Domain] Title of the individual (or the nature of the entity's relationship with the individual) who is party to the equity-based compensation arrangement. Employees Employees [Member] Represent employees of the entity. Company's chairman and chief executive officer Board of Directors Chairman and Chief Executive Officer [Member] Chairman is the leader of the entity's board of directors who presides over board meetings and other board activities and the chief executive officer is the highest ranking executive officer, who has ultimate managerial responsibility for the entity and who reports to the board of directors. Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Domain] Plan Name [Domain] Long-term Incentive Plan 2006 and 2009 Long-term Incentive Plan 2006 and 2009 [Member] Represents information pertaining to 2006 and 2009 Long-term Incentive Plan of the entity. Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Domain] Equity Award [Domain] 2013 Performance Incentive Plan [Member] 2013 Performance Incentive Plan [Member] 2013 Performance Incentive Plan [Member] Restricted stock units Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Amended restricted stock units vesting on January 1, 2014 Restricted Stock Units Amended Units Vesting on January 1, 2014 [Member] Restricted Stock Units Amended Units Vesting on January 1, 2014 [Member] Service-based restricted stock units vesting on March 2014 Service-based Restricted Stock Units Vesting on March 2014 [Member] Service-based Restricted Stock Units Vesting on March 2014 [Member] Common Stock Subject to Sales Restriction [Member] Common Stock Subject to Sales Restriction [Member] Common Stock Subject to Sales Restriction [Member] Common Stock Common Stock [Member] Service-based restricted stock units Service Based Restricted Stock Units [Member] Represents details pertaining to service-based restricted stock units. Performance-based restricted stock units vesting on December 31, 2016 Performance Based Restricted Stock Units Vesting on December 31, 2016 [Member] Performance Based Restricted Stock Units Vesting on December 31, 2016 [Member] Service-based restricted stock units vesting on February 1, 2016 Service-based Restricted Stock Units Vesting on February 1, 2016 [Member] Service-based Restricted Stock Units Vesting on February 1, 2016 [Member] Performance based restricted stock units vesting on December 31, 2014 Performance Based Restricted Stock Units Vesting on December 31, 2014 [Member] Performance Based Restricted Stock Units Vesting on December 31, 2014 [Member] Performance-based restricted stock units Performance Based Restricted Stock Units [Member] Represents details pertaining to performance-based restricted stock units. Service-based restricted stock units vesting on June 15, 2014 Service-based Restricted Stock Units Vesting on June 15, 2014 [Member] Service-based Restricted Stock Units Vesting on June 15, 2014 [Member] Service based restricted stock units with specified vesting dates Service-based Restricted Stock Units with Specified Vesting Terms [Member] Represents details pertaining to service-based restricted stock units with specified original vesting terms. Maximum Maximum [Member] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Percentage of Total Points Granted Percentage of Total Points Granted Percentage of Total Points Granted Percentage of Total Points Percentage of Total Points Percentage of Total Points Stock-based compensation expense Unrecognized compensation cost Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Weighted-average period to recognize the unrecognized compensation cost Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition Deferred compensation share-based arrangements, liability, current and noncurrent Deferred Compensation Share-based Arrangements, Liability, Current and Noncurrent Shares available for issuance Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant Vested (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Restricted shares awarded Restricted Stock, Shares Issued Net of Shares for Tax Withholdings Non-vested, outstanding (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Vesting term Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period Sale restriction period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Sale Restriction Period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Sale Restriction Period Granted units Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Granted, Number Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Granted, Number Vesting percentage Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vesting Percentage Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vesting Percentage Risk-free interest rate Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate Expected stock price volatility Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate Stock Repurchase Program Stock Repurchase Program [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Repurchase of common stock, authorized amount Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount Available repurchase of common stock, authorized amount Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount Revenues Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Revenue Total expenses Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Total Expenses Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Total Expenses Impairment of assets Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Impairment Charges Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Impairment Charges Income (loss) from discontinued operations Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Schedule of Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock outstanding by series Schedule of Stock by Class [Table Text Block] Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) reflected in the Company's shareholders' equity Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Reconciliation of income (loss) from continuing operations used in the basic and diluted EPS calculations Reconciliation of Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Income (loss) from continuing operations Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Income from sales of residential property Residential Property Profit (Loss) The gain resulting from the sale or other disposition of residential properties or components of those assets during the period. Preferred dividends Preferred Stock Dividends, Income Statement Impact Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to iStar Financial Inc. and allocable to common shareholders, HPU holders and Participating Security Holders Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Attributable to Parent and Available to Common Shareholders Hpu Holders and Participating Security Holders The income or loss from continuing operations during the period which is attributable to the parent and is available to common shareholders, HPU holders and Participating Security holders. Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] HPU's HPU [Member] This element represents HPU's (High Performance Units). Class of Stock [Line Items] Class of Stock [Line Items] Numerator for basic and diluted earnings per share: Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic [Abstract] Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to iStar Financial Inc. and allocable to common shareholders Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Attributable to Parent and Available to Common Shareholders The income or loss from continuing operations during the period which is attributable to the parent and is available to common shareholders. Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to iStar Financial Inc. and allocable to HPU holders Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Attributable to Parent and Available to HPU Holders The income or loss from continuing operations during the period which is attributable to the parent and is available to HPU holders. Income (loss) from discontinued operations Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations This element represents the overall income (loss) from a disposal group that is classified as a component of the entity, net of income tax, reported as a separate component of income before extraordinary items and the cumulative effect of accounting changes before deduction or consideration of the amount which may be allocable to noncontrolling interests, if any. Gain from discontinued operations Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal of Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax Net income (loss) allocable to common shareholders Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic Denominator for basic and diluted earnings per share: Denominator for Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share or Hpu Share [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Weighted average number of common shares—basic and diluted Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic and Diluted Weighted average number of HPU shares—basic and diluted Weighted Average Number of HPU Shares Outstanding Basic and Diluted The average number of shares of High Performance common stock (a separate class of stock) issued and outstanding that are used in calculating basic and diluted EPS. Basic and diluted earnings per common share: Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract] Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to iStar Financial Inc. and allocable to common shareholders (in dollars per share) Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic and Diluted Share Income (loss) from discontinued operations (in dollars per share) Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations and Disposal of Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Basic and Diluted Share Gain from discontinued operations (in dollars per share) Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal of Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax, Per Basic and Diluted Share Net income (loss) attributable to iStar Financial Inc. and allocable to common shareholders/HPU holders (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted Segment Reporting Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Real Estate Property Ownership [Axis] Real Estate Property Ownership [Axis] Real Estate Properties [Domain] Real Estate Properties [Domain] Residential Operating Properties Residential Operating Properties [Member] Residential Operating Properties [Member] Land Land [Member] Condominium Units Condominium Units [Member] Condominium Units [Member] Real estate available and held for sale Real Estate Available and Held for Sale Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of investments in land and buildings held for sale, including real estate considered to be inventory of the entity. Property transferred from HFS, aggregate, carrying value Property Transferred from HFS, Aggregate, Carrying Value Property Transferred from HFS, Aggregate, Carrying Value Property transferred to held for sale, aggregate, carrying value Property Transferred to Held for Sale, Aggregate, Carrying Value Property Transferred to Held for Sale, Aggregate, Carrying Value Other Assets and Other Liabilities [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Other Assets and Other Liabilities Other Assets and Other Liabilities Disclosure [Text Block] This element may be used as a single block of text to encapsulate the entire disclosure for other assets and other liabilities including data and tables. Investments, All Other Investments [Abstract] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Domain] Investment, Name [Domain] LNR Property LLC (LNR) LNR Property LLC [Member] Represents LNR Property LLC which is a servicer and a special servicer of commercial mortgage loans and CMBS and a diversified real estate, finance and management company. LNR and certain commercial mortgage backed securities and collateralized debt obligation trusts that are considered VIEs LNR Property Corporation and Considered Variable Interest Entity [Member] Represents LNR Property Corporation and certain commercial mortgage backed securities and collateralized debt obligation trusts that are considered VIEs. Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Total revenue Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Revenue Income tax (expense) benefit Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Income Tax Expense (Benefit) The amount of income tax expense (benefit) reported by an equity method investment of the entity. Net income attributable to LNR Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Net Income (Loss) Servicing fee revenue Equity Method Investment Servicing Fee Revenue The amount of servicing fee revenue reported by an equity method investment of the entity and eliminated upon consolidation. Other than temporary impairment Equity Method Investment, Other than Temporary Impairment Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Other Loss Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Other Loss Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Other Loss Total gross carrying value of loans Loans Receivable Net of Deferred Income Reflects the aggregate gross carrying amount of all categories of loans held in portfolio, after deducting deferred income, but before deducting the allowance for losses on loans. Reserves for loan losses Loans Receivable Allowance The allowance for loan losses represents the reserve to cover probable credit losses related to specifically identified loans, as well as probable credit losses inherent in the remainder of the loan portfolio as of the balance sheet date. Total loans receivable, net Loans Receivable, Net Other lending investments—securities Held-to-Maturity and Available-for-sale Securities This item represents investments in debt securities which are categorized as held-to-maturity and securities classified as available for sale. Total loans receivable and other lending investments, net(1) Loans and Other Lending Investments Amount representing an agreement for an unconditional promise by the maker to pay the Entity (holder) a definite sum of money at a future date, net of any write-downs taken for collection uncertainty on the part of the holder. Such amount may include accrued interest receivable in accordance with the terms of the note. The note also may contain provisions and related items including a discount or premium, payable on demand, secured, or unsecured, interest bearing or noninterest bearing, among myriad other features and characteristics. In addition, amount also includes total debt and equity financial instruments including: securities held-to-maturity and securities available-for-sale. Interest receivable Interest Receivable Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Schedule of assets and liabilities recorded at fair value on a recurring and non-recurring basis by levels Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table Text Block] Interest Rate Swap Interest rate swaps Interest Rate Swap [Member] Terminated Interest Rate Swap Terminated Interest Rate Swap [Member] Terminated Interest Rate Swap [Member] Forward Contracts Forward Contracts [Member] Foreign currency transaction gain (loss) Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), before Tax Reclassification of (gains)/losses on cash flow hedges into earnings upon realization Derivative, Net Hedge Ineffectiveness Gain (Loss) Notional amount Derivative, Notional Amount Expense related to qualifying cash flow hedges expected to be reclassified to earnings over the next 12 months Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified within Twelve Months Collateral already posted, aggregate fair value Collateral Already Posted, Aggregate Fair Value Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Loans Receivable and Other Lending Investments, Net Loans Receivable and Other Lending Investments, Net [Member] Loans Receivable and Other Lending Investments, Net [Member] Commitment Type [Axis] Commitment Type [Axis] Commitment Type [Axis] Commitment Type [Domain] Commitment Type [Domain] [Domain] for Commitment Type [Axis] Investment Type [Axis] Investment Type [Axis] Investments [Domain] Investments [Domain] Net Lease Net Lease Asset [Member] Represents details pertaining to net lease assets. Land Operating Properties Operating Properties [Member] Operating Properties [Member] Madison International Real Estate Fund IILP Madison International Real Estate Fund IILP [Member] Represents information pertaining to Madison International Real Estate Fund II, LP. Madison International Real Estate Fund IIILP Madison International Real Estate Fund IIILP [Member] Represents information pertaining to Madison International Real Estate Fund III, LP. Madison GP1 Investors LP Madison GP1 Investors LP [Member] Represents information pertaining to Madison GP1 Investors, LP. Oak Hill Funds Group 2 Oak Hill Funds Group 2 [Member] Represents information pertaining to Oak Hill group two, which includes OHA Strategic Master Fund, L.P. Real estate equity investment 51.9% Real Estate Equity Investment One [Member] Real Estate Equity Investment One [Member] Real Estate Equity Investment Two [Member] Real Estate Equity Investment Two [Member] Real Estate Equity Investment Two [Member] Other real estate equity investments Other Real Estate Equity Investments [Member] Other Real Estate Equity Investments [Member] Real estate equity investments Real Estate Equity Investments [Member] Real Estate Equity Investments iStar's ownership percentage Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Net proceeds from sales of real estate Proceeds from Sale of Real Estate Held-for-investment Payments for contributions to unconsolidated entities Payments for Contributions to Unconsolidated Entities This element represents payments for contributions to unconsolidated entities. Partners' capital account, contributions Partners' Capital Commitment Partners' Capital Commitment Equity method investment, related party ownership percentage Equity Method Investment, Related Party Ownership Percentage Equity Method Investment, Related Party Ownership Percentage Equity method investment, related party promote fee percentage Equity Method Investment, Related Party Promote Fee Percentage Equity Method Investment, Related Party Promote Fee Percentage Equity method investment, partner ownership percentage Equity Method Investment, Partner Ownership Percentage Equity Method Investment, Partner Ownership Percentage Equity method investments Equity Method Investments Loans receivable, commitments, related party Loans Receivable, Commitments, Related Party Loans Receivable, Commitments, Related Party Payments for funding under loan commitments Loans Receivable, Related Party Loans Receivable, Related Party Earnings (loss) from equity method investments Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Schedule of Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructurings [Table] Schedule of Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructurings [Table] Troubled debt restructurings Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items] Carrying value of loans sold Loans, Sold Loans Carrying Value Represents the carrying value of loans sold during the period. Realized investment gains (losses) Realized Investment Gains (Losses) Number of loans Financing receivable modifications recorded investment of contracts whose maturity extended and reduced principal Financing Receivable Modifications Recorded Investment of Contracts Whose Maturity Extended and Reduced Principal Recorded investment of financing Receivable whose maturity was extended and principal was reduced Recorded investment of loans whose maturity was extended Financing Receivable Modifications Recorded Investment of Contracts Whose Maturity Extended Represents the amount of the outstanding recorded investment related to financing receivables for which the maturity was extended and that has been modified by troubled debt restructurings. Finance Receivable, Trouble Debt Restructuring Time Period Finance Receivable, Trouble Debt Restructuring Time Period Represents the weighted average maturity period of loans. Unfunded commitments, troubled debt restructurings Financing Receivable Modifications Unfunded Commitments Represents the amount of the outstanding unfunded commitment related to financing receivables that has been modified by troubled debt restructurings. Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Interest Expense Interest Expense [Member] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Reclassification of (gains)/losses on cash flow hedges into earnings upon realization Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, Net of Tax Recorded investment (comprised of a loans carrying value plus accrued interest) in loans and the associated reserve for loan losses Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Additional Information [Abstract] Loans Loans Gross [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Individually Evaluated for Impairment(1) Financing Receivable, Individually Evaluated for Impairment Collectively Evaluated for Impairment(2) Financing Receivable, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment Loans Acquired with Deteriorated Credit Quality(3) Financing Receivable, Acquired with Deteriorated Credit Quality Total Less: Reserve for loan losses Loans Receivable Allowance [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Individually Evaluated for Impairment(1) Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Individually Evaluated for Impairment Collectively Evaluated for Impairment(2) Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Collectively Evaluated for Impairment Loans Acquired with Deteriorated Credit Quality(3) Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Acquired with Deteriorated Credit Quality Total Total Loans Net [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Individually Evaluated for Impairment(1) Financing Receivable Individually Evaluated for Impairment, Net of Reserve for Loan Losses The balance of financing receivables that were individually evaluated for impairment net of reserve for loan losses. Collectively Evaluated for Impairment(2) Financing Receivable Collectively Evaluated for Impairment, Net of Reserve for Loan Losses The balance of financing receivables that were collectively evaluated for impairment net of reserve for loan losses. Loans Acquired with Deteriorated Credit Quality(3) Financing Receivable Acquired with Deteriorated Credit Quality, Net of Reserve for Loan Losses The balance of financing receivables that were acquired with deteriorated credit quality net of reserve for loan losses. Total Financing Receivable, Net of Reserve for Loan Losses The amount of the recorded investment in a contractual right to receive money on demand or on fixed or determinable dates that is recognized as an asset in the creditor's statement of financial position, net of reserve for loan losses. Unamortized discounts, premiums, deferred fees and costs, individually evaluated for impairment, net premium (discount) Unamortized Discount Premium Deferred Fees and Costs, Individually Evaluated for Impairment Represents the unamortized discounts, premiums, deferred fees and costs relating to loans individually evaluated for impairment and shown as a net premium (discount). Unamortized discounts, premiums, deferred fees and costs, collectively evaluated for impairment, net premium (discount) Unamortized Discount Premium Deferred Fees and Costs Collectively Evaluated for Impairment Represents the unamortized discounts, premiums, deferred fees and costs relating to loans collectively evaluated for impairment and shown as a net premium (discount). Unamortized discounts, premiums, deferred fees and costs, loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality, net premium (discount) Unamortized Discount Premium Deferred Fees and Costs Loans Acquired with Deteriorated Credit Quality Represents the unamortized discounts, premiums, deferred fees and costs relating to loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality and shown as a net premium (discount). Cumulative principal balances of loans acquired with deteriorated credit quality Financing Receivable Acquired with Deteriorated Credit Quality Cumulative Principal Balance Represents the cumulative principal balance of financing receivables that were acquired with deteriorated credit quality. Accounting Policies [Abstract] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Earnings Per Share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Asset Class [Axis] Asset Class [Axis] Asset Class [Domain] Asset Class [Domain] Encumbered Assets Encumbered Assets [Member] Encumbered Assets [Member] Unencumbered Assets Unencumbered Assets [Member] Unencumbered Assets [Member] Real estate, net Real Estate Investment Property, Held for Use, Net Real Estate Investment Property, Held for Use, Net Real estate available and held for sale Loans receivable and other lending investments, net(1) Other investments Other Investments Cash and other assets Cash and Other Assets Sum of all assets excluding the Company's Total Portfolio Assets. Total assets Assets Financing receivable, allowance for credit losses, collectively evaluated for impairment Other Investments Other Investments [Text Block] This element represents the disclosures for equity method investments, cost method investments, and marketable securities. Tenant reimbursements Tenant Reimbursements Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, by Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Joint venture shares Joint Venture Shares [Member] Incremental common shares attributable to joint venture shares that were not included in diluted earnings per share (EPS) because to do so would increase EPS amounts or decrease loss per share amounts during the period presented. 3.00% convertible senior unsecured notes Unsecured Notes 3 Percent Senior Convertible Notes Due October 2016 [Member] Unsecured Notes 3 Percent Senior Convertible Notes Due October 2016 Series J convertible perpetual preferred stock Series J Preferred Stock [Member] Series J Preferred Stock [Member] 1.50% convertible senior unsecured notes Unsecured Notes 1 point 50 Percent Senior Convertible Notes Due November 2016 [Member] [Member] Unsecured Notes 1 point 50 Percent Senior Convertible Notes Due November 2016 [Member] [Member] Anti-dilutive shares Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Anti-dilutive shares Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Real estate equity investments Other equity method investments Other Equity Method Investments [Member] Represents information pertaining to other equity method investments not listed separately. Madison Funds Madison Funds [Member] Represents information pertaining to Madison Funds. Oak Hill Funds Oak Hill Funds [Member] Represents information pertaining to Oak Hill funds, an equity method investment of the entity. Other Equity Method Investee Other Equity Method Investee [Member] Other Equity Method Investee [Member] Other, carrying value Cost Method Investments Other investments Schedule of deferred expenses and other assets, net Deferred Costs, Capitalized, Prepaid, and Other Assets Disclosure [Table Text Block] Schedule of accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities Schedule of Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of deferred tax assets and liabilities Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation Items [Domain] Operating Segments Operating Segments [Member] Corporate, Non-Segment Corporate, Non-Segment [Member] Statement, Business Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segment [Domain] Segments [Domain] Real Estate Finance Real Estate Lending [Member] Represents the Real Estate Lending segment that includes all of the Company's activities related to senior and mezzanine real estate debt and corporate capital investments. Net Lease Net Leasing [Member] Represents the Net Leasing segment that includes all of the company's activities related to the ownership and leasing of corporate facilities. Operating Properties Operating Property [Member] Operating Property [Member] Corporate/Other Corporate and Other [Member] Segment Reporting Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Number of reportable segments Number of Reportable Segments Operating lease income Operating Leases, Income Statement, Lease Revenue Interest income Interest and Fee Income, Loans, Commercial Other income Other Income Land sales revenue Land Sales Total revenues Revenues Income (loss) from discontinued operations(4) Net Operating Income From Discontinued Operations This element represents the total revenue and real estate expense from a disposal group or asset held for sale that is reported as a separate component of income, in discontinued operations. Revenue and other earnings Revenue and Other Earnings The sum of the Company's total revenue and other earnings related to the Company's business segments. Real estate expense Cost of Real Estate Held-for-Sale and Other Real Estate Owned This element represents the aggregate of the holding and operating costs related to real estate held for investment and the net costs related to other real estate owned. Land cost of sales Costs of Land Sales Costs of Land Sales Other expense Other Expenses Allocated interest expense Interest Expense Including Discontinued Operations The cost of borrowed funds accounted for as interest that was charged against earnings during the period including amounts presented in discontinued operations. Allocated general and administrative(2) General and Administrative Expense Excluding Stock-based Compensation Expense The aggregate total of expenses of managing and administering the affairs of the entity, including affiliates of the reporting entity, which are not directly or indirectly associated with the manufacture, sale or creation of a product or product line, excluding stock-based compensation expense. Segment profit (loss)(3) Provision for (recovery of) loan losses Impairment of assets Asset Impairment Charges Including Discontinued Operations The charge against earnings resulting from the aggregate write down of all assets from their carrying value to their fair value including amounts presented in discontinued operations. Depreciation and amortization Depreciation and Amortization Including Discontinued Operations The current period expense charged against earnings on long-lived, physical assets not used in production, and which are not intended for resale, to allocate or recognize the cost of such assets over their useful lives; or to record the reduction in book value of an intangible asset over the benefit period of such asset; or to reflect consumption during the period of an asset that is not used in production including amounts presented in discontinued operations. Capitalized expenditures Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation Costs, Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of costs that were capitalized after acquisition, including property improvements and carrying costs (for example, real estate taxes and insurance), but excluding the initial purchase price. Real estate, at cost Real Estate Investment Property, Held for Use, Gross Real Estate Investment Property, Held for Use, Gross Less: accumulated depreciation Real Estate Investment Property, Accumulated Depreciation Real estate, net Total real estate Real Estate Investment Property, Net Loans receivable and other lending investments, net Other investments Total portfolio assets Portfolio Assets The aggregate of Total real estate, loans receivable, net and Other investments. Cash and other assets Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship, by Income Statement Location, by Derivative Instrument Risk [Table] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Interest Expense Designated as hedge Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Derivative financial instruments on consolidated statements of operations Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Effective Portion) Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Effective Portion, Net Amount of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income into Earnings (Effective Portion) Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion, Net Derivative, Net Hedge Ineffectiveness Gain (Loss) Amount of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in Income Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net Net income (loss) Other comprehensive income (loss): Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Reclassification of (gains)/losses on available-for-sale securities into earnings upon realization(1) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI for Sale of Securities, Net of Tax Reclassification of (gains)/losses on cash flow hedges into earnings upon realization(2) Realization of (gains)/losses on cumulative translation adjustment into earnings upon realization(1) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Realized upon Sale or Liquidation, Net of Tax Unrealized gains/(losses) on available-for-sale securities Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax Unrealized gains/(losses) on cash flow hedges Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax Unrealized gains/(losses) on cumulative translation adjustment Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Net of Tax Other comprehensive income (loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Comprehensive income (loss) Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to iStar Financial Inc. Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping, Disclosure Item Amounts [Axis] Measurement Basis [Axis] Fair Value, Disclosure Item Amounts [Domain] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member] Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member] Fair Value Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] Book and estimated fair values of financial instruments Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Financial assets: Financial Instruments, Financial Assets, Balance Sheet Groupings [Abstract] Financial liabilities: Financial Instruments, Financial Liabilities, Balance Sheet Groupings [Abstract] Debt obligations, net Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Variable Interest Entities by Classification of Entity [Axis] Variable Interest Entities [Axis] Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain] Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain] Consolidated VIEs Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary, Aggregated Disclosure [Member] Unconsolidated VIEs Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary [Member] Variable interest entities Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Total revenues and total expenses related to consolidated VIEs Variable Interest Entity, Measure of Activity [Abstract] Number of variable interest entities (in investments) Variable Interest Entity Number Represents the number of variable interest entities of the entity. Variable interest entity, consolidated, carrying amount, assets Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets Variable interest entity, consolidated, carrying amount, liabilities Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Liabilities Variable interest entity unfunded commitment Variable Interest Entity Unfunded Commitment The amount of unfunded commitments that the entity has to the Variable Interest Entity. Carrying value of the investments Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets and Liabilities, Net Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Other Assets Other Assets [Member] Other Liabilities Other Liabilities [Member] Derivative financial instruments on consolidated balance sheets Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivative Assets, Fair Value Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Derivative Liabilities, Fair Value Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Directors Director [Member] Former director Former Director [Member] Former Director [Member] CSE and restricted stock units CSE and Restricted Stock Award [Member] CSE and Restricted Stock Award [Member] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Shares issued for settlement (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Shares Issued for Settlement The number of shares issued during the period to settle grants made on other than stock (or unit) option plans (for example, phantom stock or unit plan, stock or unit appreciation rights plan, performance target plan). Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Aggregate intrinsic value for directors Share based Compensation Arrangement by Share based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Aggregate Intrinsic Value for Directors The aggregate intrinsic value of outstanding equity awards on equity-based plans excluding option plans for which the Company is contingently obligated to issue equity instruments or transfer assets to an director as calculated by applying the disclosed pricing methodology. Business Combinations [Abstract] Business combination, pro forma information, revenue of acquiree since acquisition date, actual Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Revenue of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Business combination, pro forma information, earnings or loss of acquiree since acquisition date, actual Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Earnings or Loss of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Business combination, pro forma revenue Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue Business combination, pro forma net income (loss) Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss) Schedule of the Company's loans and other lending investments by class Schedule of Loans and Other Lending Investments [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of loans and other lending investments by class. Includes the gross carrying value of a loan by class, reserve for loan losses, and the net carrying value as of the Balance Sheet date. Schedule of changes in the Company's reserve for loan losses Allowance for Credit Losses on Financing Receivables [Table Text Block] Schedule of recorded investment in loans and associated reserve for loan losses Schedule of Investment in Loans and Associated Reserve for Loan Losses [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the Company's recorded investment in loans and the associated reserve for loan losses. Schedule of investment in performing loans, presented by class and by credit quality, as indicated by risk rating Financing Receivable Credit Quality Indicators [Table Text Block] Schedule of recorded investment in loans, aged by payment status and presented by class Past Due Financing Receivables [Table Text Block] Schedule of recorded investment in impaired loans, presented by class Impaired Financing Receivables [Table Text Block] Schedule of average recorded investment in impaired loans and interest income recognized, presented by class Impaired Financing Receivables Average Recorded Investment and Interest Income Recognized [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure by class of the average recorded investment in impaired loans and the related interest income recognized. Schedule of troubled debt restructurings, presented by class Troubled Debt Restructurings on Financing Receivables [Table Text Block] Marketable securities Marketable Securities [Table Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Residential Operating Properties [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Asset Impairment Charges Asset Impairment Charges Impairment of long-lived assets to be disposed of Impairment of Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed of Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Series D, E, F, G and I Preferred Stock Series D, E, F, G and I Preferred Stock [Member] Series D, E, F, G and I Preferred Stock [Member] ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Real estate, at cost Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Restricted cash Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Accrued interest and operating lease income receivable, net Accrued Interest and Operating Lease Income Receivable Net This element represents interest, rents, ancillary and operating lease income earned but not yet received by the entity on its loans and other lending investments and net lease assets. Deferred operating lease income receivable Deferred Rent Receivables, Net Deferred expenses and other assets, net Deferred Expenses and Other Assets Net This element represents net amount of other deferred expenses and other assets capitalized at the end of the reporting period. LIABILITIES AND EQUITY Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Liabilities: Liabilities [Abstract] Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Total liabilities Liabilities Commitments and contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Redeemable noncontrolling interests Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest, Equity, Carrying Amount Equity: Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] iStar Financial Inc. shareholders' equity: Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Preferred Stock Preferred Stock, Value, Issued High Performance Units High Performance Units This element represents equity based compensation which qualifies as a second class of stock. Common Stock, $0.001 par value, 200,000 shares authorized, 145,770 issued and 85,153 outstanding at June 30, 2014 and 144,334 issued and 83,717 outstanding at December 31, 2013 Common Stock, Value, Issued Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital Retained earnings (deficit) Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (see Note 11) Treasury stock, at cost, $0.001 par value, 60,617 shares at June 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 Treasury Stock, Value Total iStar Financial Inc. shareholders' equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Noncontrolling interests Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total equity Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total liabilities and equity Liabilities and Equity Schedule of Financing Receivables Past Due [Table] Schedule of Financing Receivables Past Due [Table] Recorded investment in loans, aged by payment status and presented by class Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due [Line Items] Current Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Current Less Than and Equal to 90 Days Financing Receivable Recorded Investment Equal to Less than 90 Days Past Due Financing receivables that are equal to or less than 90 days past due. Greater Than 90 Days Financing Receivable Recorded Investment Greater than 90 Days Past Due Financing receivables that are greater than 90 days past due. Total Past Due Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Table] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Table] Foreign exchange contracts Foreign Exchange Forward [Member] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Line Items] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Line Items] Schedule of Notional Amounts of Outstanding Derivative Positions Schedule of Notional Amounts of Outstanding Derivative Positions [Table Text Block] Schedule of fair value of derivative financial instruments as well as their classification on Consolidated Balance Sheets Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block] Schedule of derivative financial instruments on Consolidated Statements of Operations Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table Text Block] Allowance for Loan Losses [Roll Forward] Allowance for Loan Losses [Roll Forward] Reserve for loan losses at beginning of period Provision for (recovery of) loan losses Charge-offs Allowance for Loan Losses Write-Offs Reflects the amount of loans that have been removed, or charged off, from both loan receivables and the reserve for credit losses, typically because they are considered to be not salvageable or have been purchased by unconsolidated collection entities. Reserve for loan losses at end of period Recoveries of previously recorded loan loss reserves Allowance for Loan and Lease Loss, Recovery of Bad Debts Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Statement, Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Strategic Venture, Commercial Operating Properties Strategic Venture, Commercial Operating Properties [Member] Strategic Venture, Commercial Operating Properties [Member] Net loss attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interest Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest Properties acquired in joint venture Business Combination, Acquisition of Less than 100 Percent, Noncontrolling Interest, Fair Value Payments for repurchase of redeemable noncontrolling interest Payments for Repurchase of Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Residential Real Estate, Type of Property [Axis] Residential Real Estate, Type of Property [Axis] Residential Real Estate, Type of Property [Axis] Residential Real Estate, Type of Property [Domain] Residential Real Estate, Type of Property [Domain] Residential Real Estate, Type of Property [Domain] Master Planned Community [Member] Master Planned Community [Member] Master Planned Community [Member] Residential Real Estate Residential Real Estate [Member] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Proceeds from sale of other real estate Proceeds from Sale of Other Real Estate Income from sale of residential property Number of Real Estate Properties Sold Number of Real Estate Properties Sold Number of Real Estate Properties Sold Land cost of sales Property sold, aggregate, carrying value Property Sold, Aggregate, Carrying Value Property Sold, Aggregate, Carrying Value Property contributed, aggregate, carrying value Property Contributed, Aggregate, Carrying Value Property Contributed, Aggregate, Carrying Value Gain (loss) on disposition of property Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Property Plant Equipment, Excluding Oil and Gas Property and Timber Property Gain (loss) on sale of leased assets, net, operating leases Gain (Loss) on Sale of Leased Assets, Net, Operating Leases Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Dividends [Abstract] Dividends [Abstract] Minimum percentage of taxable income (excluding net capital gains) to be distributed in order to qualify as REIT Minimum Percentage of Taxable Income Excluding Capital Gains to be Distributed to Qualify as REIT Represents the minimum percentage of taxable income (excluding capital gains) to be distributed in order to qualify as REIT. Percentage of taxable income (including net capital gains) to be distributed in order to qualify as REIT Percentage of Taxable Income Including Capital Gains to be Distributed to Qualify as REIT Represents the percentage of taxable income (including capital gains) to be distributed in order to qualify as REIT. Operating loss carryforwards Operating Loss Carryforwards Schedule of Impaired Financing Receivable [Table] Schedule of Impaired Financing Receivable [Table] Nonperforming Financing Receivable [Member] Nonperforming Financing Receivable [Member] Impaired Loans Related Allowance [Axis] Impaired Loans Related Allowance [Axis] Attributes of impaired loans classified as impaired with or without specific allowance related to the loans, by class of financial receivable. Impaired Loans Related Allowance [Domain] Impaired Loans Related Allowance [Domain] Represents a subset of a class of impaired loans that have or do not have the specific allowances related to the impaired receivables. With no related allowance recorded Receivables Without Allowance [Member] Receivables Without Allowance [Member] With an allowance recorded Receivables With Allowance [Member] Receivables With Allowance [Member] Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items] Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items] Impaired Financing Receivable, Interest Income, Cash Basis Method Impaired Financing Receivable, Interest Income, Cash Basis Method Recorded Investment Impaired Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment Unpaid Principal Balance Impaired Financing Receivable, Unpaid Principal Balance Related Allowance Impaired Financing Receivable, Related Allowance Loans modified through troubled debt restructurings Financing Receivable, Modifications, Recorded Investment Average Recorded Investment Impaired Financing Receivable, Average Recorded Investment Interest Income Recognized Impaired Financing Receivables Interest Income Cash or Accrual Method The interest income recognized on a cash-basis or accrual method of accounting during the time within that period that the financing receivables were impaired. Percentage of ownership acquired by the Company and a group of investors Equity Method Investment Ownership Percentage Acquired by Entity and Group of Investors The percentage of ownership of common stock or equity participation in the investee acquired by the entity along with group of investors, including creditors of the investee company, accounted for under the equity method of accounting. Contribution towards principal amount of Holdco Notes Payments to Acquire Equity Method Investments, Contribution Towards Principal Amount Debt Extinguished Represents the contribution made to equity method investee towards principal amount of debt extinguished. Amount of cash contributed in exchange for equity interest Payments to Acquire Equity Method Investments Equity interest in investee Equity Method Investment, Aggregate Cost Real estate, net proceeds held in escrow for potential indemnification obligations Real Estate, Net Proceeds Held in Escrow for Potential Indemnification Obligations Real Estate, Net Proceeds Held in Escrow for Potential Indemnification Obligations Equity Method Ownership Rollforward [Roll Forward] Equity Method Ownership Rollforward [Roll Forward] Equity Method Ownership Rollforward [Roll Forward] Carrying value of LNR at beginning of period Equity Method Investment, Amount, Quarter Lag Equity Method Investment, Amount, Quarter Lag Equity in earnings of LNR for the period Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments, Before Other than Temporary Impairment Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments, Before Other than Temporary Impairment Balance before other than temporary impairment Equity Method Investment, Carrying Value Before OTTI Equity Method Investment, Carrying Value Before OTTI Sales proceeds pursuant to contract Equity Method Investment, Net Sales Proceeds Carrying value of LNR at end of period Income (loss) from equity method investments, release of AOCI Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments, Release of AOCI Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments, Release of AOCI Earnings from equity method investments Stock-Based Compensation Plans and Employee Benefits Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Intangible assets, net(1) Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Deferred financing fees, net(2) Deferred Finance Costs, Net Leasing costs, net(3) Deferred Costs, Leasing, Net Other receivables Other Receivables Corporate furniture, fixtures and equipment, net(4) Furniture Fixtures and Leasehold Improvements, Net Net amount, at the balance sheet date, of long-lived, depreciable assets commonly used in offices that are additions or improvements to assets held under lease arrangement. Other assets Other Assets Deferred expenses and other assets, net Intangible assets, accumulated amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Amortization of above market lease Amortization of Above Market Lease Amortization of Above Market Lease Amortization of intangible assets Amortization of Intangible Assets Accumulated amortization of deferred financing fees Accumulated Amortization, Deferred Finance Costs Accumulated amortization on leasing costs Deferred Costs, Leasing, Accumulated Amortization Accumulated depreciation on corporate furniture, fixtures and equipment Accumulated Depreciation Furniture Fixtures and Leasehold Improvements The cumulative amount of depreciation, related to leasehold improvements, corporate furniture, fixtures and equipment that has been recognized in the income statement. Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table] Real Estate Tenant Receivables Real Estate Tenant Receivables [Member] Real Estate Tenant Receivables [Member] Deferred Operating Lease Deferred Operating Lease [Member] Deferred Operating Lease [Member] Allowance for doubtful accounts receivable Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable Operating Properties Land and land improvements Land Buildings and improvements Investment Building and Building Improvements Less: accumulated depreciation and amortization Real Estate Investment Property, Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization Real Estate Investment Property, Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization Income Statement [Abstract] Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to iStar Financial Inc. Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Attributable to Parent Schedule of Debt Securities [Table] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Table] Debt Security [Axis] Debt Security [Axis] Major Types of Debt Securities [Domain] Major Types of Debt Securities [Domain] Municipal Bonds Municipal Bonds [Member] Corporate Debt Securities Corporate Debt Securities [Member] Schedule of Debt Securities [Line Items] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items] Available-for-sale Securities, Face Value Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Security, Face Amount Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Security, Face Amount Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Amortized Cost Basis Available-for-sale Securities, Net Unrealized Gain (Loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, Net of Tax Available-for-sale Securities, Estimated Fair Value and Net Carrying Value Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities Held-to-Maturity Securities, Face Value Held-to-maturity Securities, Debt Security, Face Amount Held-to-maturity Securities, Debt Security, Face Amount Held-to-Maturity Securities, Amortized Cost Basis Held-to-maturity Securities, Amortized Cost before Other than Temporary Impairment Held-to-Maturity Securities, Net Unrealized Gain (Loss) Held-to-maturity Securities, Unrecognized Holding Loss Held-to-Maturity Securities, Estimated Fair Value Held-to-maturity Securities, Fair Value Held-to-maturity Securities Held-to-maturity Securities Face Value Debt Securities, Face Amount Debt Securities, Face Amount Amortized Cost Basis Debt Securities, Amortized Cost Basis Debt Securities, Amortized Cost Basis Estimated Fair Value Debt Securities, Fair Value Debt Securities, Fair Value Net Carrying Amount Debt Securities, Net Carrying Amount Debt Securities, Net Carrying Amount Schedule of deferred tax assets and liabilities [Table] Schedule of deferred tax assets and liabilities [Table] Schedule of deferred tax assets and liabilities [Table] Taxable REIT Subsidiaries Taxable REIT Subsidiaries [Member] Represents the taxable REIT subsidiaries ("TRSs") through which the entity is engaged in various real estate related opportunities, including but not limited to managing various investments in equity affiliates and managing activities related to certain foreclosed assets. Schedule of deferred tax assets and liabilities [Line Items] Schedule of deferred tax assets and liabilities [Line Items] [Line Items] for Schedule of deferred tax assets and liabilities [Table] Deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Gross Valuation allowance Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance Net deferred tax assets (liabilities) Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance Real estate asset basis differences Real Estate Asset Basis Differences The difference in the tax basis and carrying amounts of real estate assets of owned assets, before tax effects. Other basis differences Other Basis Differences Other Basis Differences Investment basis differences Investment Basis Differences The difference in the tax basis and carrying amounts of real estate assets of investments, before tax effects. Equity Equity Related Disclosure [Text Block] This element includes disclosures of Equity related items, including common stock, preferred stock, dividend requirements, treasury stock and accumulated other comprehensive income. Fair Values Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Business and Organization [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Business and Organization Business and Organization [Text Block] This element represents nature of an entity's business, the major products or services it sells or provides and its principal markets. It also discloses background of the entity. Document and Entity Information [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Document Type Document Type Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Liquidation Preference (in dollars per share) Preferred Stock, Liquidation Preference Per Share Common Stock, par value (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common Stock, shares authorized Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common Stock, shares issued Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common Stock, shares outstanding Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Treasury stock, par value (in dollars per share) Treasury Stock Par Value Per Share Face amount or stated value of common shares that were previously issued and that were repurchased by the issuing entity and held in treasury on the financial statement date. Treasury stock, shares Treasury Stock, Shares Basis of Presentation and Principles of Consolidation Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Derivatives Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Real Estate Real Estate Disclosure [Text Block] Percentage of capital committed to strategic investments that may be drawn down Percentage of Capital Committed that May be Drawn Down Represents the percentage of capital committed to strategic investments by the entity that may be drawn down. Loans Receivable and Other Lending Investments, net Loans and Other Lending Investments Net [Text Block] This element represents a summarization of loans and other lending investments held by the company. Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Cash flows from operating activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to cash flows from operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Impairment of assets Asset Impairment Charges, Cash Flow Impact Asset Impairment Charges, Cash Flow Impact Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Payments for withholding taxes upon vesting of stock-based compensation Stock Based Compensation Shares Withheld For Employee Taxes Upon Vesting Shares withheld for employee taxes upon vesting of stock-based compensation arrangements. Non-cash expense for stock-based compensation Share-based Compensation Amortization of discounts/premiums and deferred financing costs on debt Amortization of Financing Costs and Discounts Amortization of discounts/premiums and deferred interest on loans Amortization of Discounts or Premiums Deferred Interest and Costs on Lending Investments The component of interest income representing the noncash interest earned in the period on loans and other lending investments as well as the amortization of deferred costs or fees over the related loan investments. (Gain) loss from sales of loans Gain (Loss) on Sales of Loans, Net Earnings from equity method investments Distributions from operations of equity method investments Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Dividends or Distributions Deferred operating lease income Straight Line Rent Gain (Loss) on Sale of Properties Gain (Loss) on Sale of Properties Gain from discontinued operations Loss on early extinguishment of debt, net Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt, Cash Flow Impact Amount represents the cash flow impact of the difference between the fair value of the payments made and the carrying amount of the debt at the time of its extinguishment. Repayments and repurchases of debt—debt discount and prepayment penalty Repayments and repurchases of debt discount The component of debt repayments representing repayment of original issue discounts, classified as operating cash flows. Other operating activities, net Other Operating Activities, Cash Flow Statement Changes in assets and liabilities: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Changes in accrued interest and operating lease income receivable, net Increase (Decrease) in Accrued Interest and Operating Lease and Income Receivable This element represents net change during the reporting period in accrued interest income and operating lease income receivable earned but not yet received. Changes in deferred expenses and other assets, net Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Changes in accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Cash flows from operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Cash flows from investing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Investment originations and fundings Payments to Acquire Notes Receivable Acquisitions of and capital expenditures on real estate assets Payments for Acquisition of and Capitalize Expenditures on Real Estate Assets Payments for Acquisition of and Capitalize Expenditures on Real Estate Assets Repayments of and principal collections on loans Proceeds from Principal Repayments on Portfolio of Assets Proceeds from Principal Repayments on Portfolio of Assets Net proceeds from sales of loans Proceeds from Sale of Loans Held-for-investment Net proceeds from sale of other investments Proceeds from Sale of Equity Method Investments Distributions from other investments Proceeds from Distributions from Unconsolidated Entities This element represents the amount of capital distributions received from unconsolidated subsidiaries. These investments are accounted for under the equity method of accounting. Contributions to other investments Changes in restricted cash held in connection with investing activities Increase (Decrease) in Restricted Cash Other investing activities, net Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Cash flows from investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Cash flows from financing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Borrowings from debt obligations Proceeds from Issuance of Debt Repayments of debt obligations Repayments of Debt Preferred dividends paid Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Preferred Stock and Preference Stock Proceeds from issuance of preferred stock Proceeds from Issuance of Preferred Stock and Preference Stock Payments of Financing Costs Payments of Financing Costs Other financing activities, net Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Cash flows from financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Changes in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period Cash and cash equivalents at end of period Series D Series D Preferred Stock [Member] Series E Series E Preferred Stock [Member] Series F Series F Preferred Stock [Member] Series G Series G Preferred Stock [Member] Series I Series I Preferred Stock [Member] Outstanding nonredeemable series I preferred stock or outstanding series I preferred stock. Classified within stockholders' equity if nonredeemable or redeemable solely at the option of the issuer. Classified within temporary equity if redemption is outside the control of the issuer. Series J Maximum Shares Issued and Outstanding (in thousands) Preferred Stock Shares Issued and Outstanding Total number of nonredeemable preferred shares (or preferred stock redeemable solely at the option of the issuer) issued to shareholders (includes related preferred shares that were issued, repurchased, and remain in the treasury) and held by stockholders. May be all or portion of the number of preferred shares authorized. Excludes preferred shares that are classified as debt and preferred shares that have been repurchased. Par Value (in dollars per share) Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Rate per Annum Preferred Stock, Dividend Rate, Percentage Equivalent to Fixed Annual Rate (per share) Preferred Stock, Dividend Rate, Per-Dollar-Amount Number of days in year used in the computation of preferred stock dividends for any partial dividend period Preferred Stock, Dividends Computation of Dividends Payable for Any Partial Dividend Period, Number of Days in Year Represents the number of days in year used in the computation of preferred stock dividends for any partial dividend period. Number of months used in the computation of preferred stock dividends for any partial dividend period Preferred Stock, Dividends Computation of Dividends Payable for Any Partial Dividend Period, Number of Months Represents the number of months used in the computation of preferred stock dividends for any partial dividend period. Number of days in month, dividends computation of dividends payable for any partial dividend period Preferred Stock, Dividends Computation of Dividends Payable for Any Partial Dividend Period, Number of Days in Month Represents the number of days in month used in the computation of preferred stock dividends for any partial dividend period. Number of days prior to dividend payment date that Board of Directors may elect to designate as the payment date Preferred Stock Dividends, Number of Days Prior to Dividend Payment Date That Board of Directors May Elect to Designate as Payment Date Represents the number of days prior to dividend payment date that Board of Directors may elect to designate as the payment date. Dividends declared and paid Dividends declared and paid Aggregate dividends declared and paid during the period for each share of common stock outstanding. Amount of preferred dividends in arrears Preferred Stock, Amount of Preferred Dividends in Arrears Schedule of financial measures for each segment based on which performance is evaluated Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Reconciliation of segment profit (loss) to income (loss) from continuing operations Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Consolidated [Table Text Block] Preferred Stock Preferred Stock [Member] Series J Preferred Stock Common Stock at Par Additional Paid-In Capital Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Retained Earnings (Deficit) Retained Earnings [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] Treasury Stock at Cost Treasury Stock [Member] Noncontrolling Interests Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Balance Issuance of Preferred Stock Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues Dividends declared—preferred Dividends, Preferred Stock, Cash Issuance of stock/restricted stock unit amortization, net Issuance of Stock and Restricted Stock Unit Amortization Net Value of stock related to restricted stocks awards issued during the period and the amortization of restricted stock units and other restricted stock activity. Net income (loss) for the period Profit (Loss) Adjusted for Income (Loss) Attributable to Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest The consolidated profit or loss for the period including the portion attributable to the noncontrolling interest, net of income taxes and income (loss) attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interest. Change in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Additional paid in capital attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interest Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Other Contributions from noncontrolling interests Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Subsidiary Equity Issuance Distributions to noncontrolling interests Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders Balance Debt Obligations, net Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of other investments and its proportionate share of results for equity method investments Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block] Schedule of summarized Income Statements Schedule of Equity Method Investment, Summarized Income Statements [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of latest available summarized Income Statements of equity method investee. Line of Credit Facility [Table] Line of Credit Facility [Table] October 2012 Secured Credit Facility New credit facility due October 2017 [Member] Represents the New credit facility which is due October 2017. 2012 Tranche A-1 Facility Secured Credit Facilities Tranche A-1 Facility Due March, 2016 [Member] Represents the Secured Tranche A-1 Facility of the entity maturing in March 2016. 2012 Secured Credit Facilities Secured Credit Facilities, 2012 [Member] Represents the secured credit facility of the entity entered into in 2012. Unsecured Notes LIBOR plus 0.50% senior convertible notes Unsecured Notes LIBOR Plus Point 50 Percent Senior Convertible Notes Due October 2012 [Member] Unsecured Notes LIBOR + 0.50% senior convertible notes due October 2012 debt instrument of the entity. Unsecured Line of credit due June 2012 Unsecured Credit Facility Line of Credit June 2012 [Member] Unsecured Line of credit due June 2012 debt instrument of the entity. Unsecured Notes 5.50% senior notes Unsecured Notes 5 point 50 Percent Senior Notes Due June 2012 [Member] Unsecured Notes 5.50% due June 2012 senior notes debt instrument of the entity. Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Debt instrument, face amount Debt Instrument, Face Amount Debt instrument, lender fees, amount Debt Instrument, Lender Fees, Amount Debt Instrument, Lender Fees, Amount Debt instrument, capitalized lender fees Debt Instrument, Capitalized Lender Fees Debt Instrument, capitalized Lender Fees Debt instrument, lender fees, amount recorded as a loss on early extinguishment of debt Debt Instrument, Lender Fees, Amount Recorded as a Loss on Early Extinguishment of Debt Debt Instrument, Lender Fees, Amount Recorded as a Loss on Early Extinguishment of Debt Debt instrument, third party fees Debt Instrument, Third Party Fees Debt Instrument, Third Party Fees Debt instrument, third party fees, amount recognized Debt Instrument, Third Party Fees, Amount Recognized Debt Instrument, Third Party Fees, Amount Recognized Debt instrument, third party fees, amount capitalized Debt Instrument, Third Party Fees, Amount Capitalized Debt Instrument, Third Party Fees, Amount Capitalized Repayment of principal amount Loss on early extinguishment of debt, net Number of tranches Number of Tranches under Term Loans Represents the number of tranches under term loans. Percentage of par credit facilities were issued at Line of Credit Facility Issue Price as Percentage of Principal Amount Represents the percentage of principal amount used in the computation of issue price for the line of credit facility. Capitalization Capitalization of Real Estate Project Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block] Capitalization of Real Estate Project Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block] Dispositions Revenue Recognition, Real Estate Transactions, Policy [Policy Text Block] New Accounting Pronouncements New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Schedule of debt obligations Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block] Schedule of future scheduled maturities of outstanding long-term debt obligations, net Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] Schedule of carrying value of encumbered assets by asset type Schedule of Encumbered Assets [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of assets which were encumbered with mortgages or pledged as collateral for borrowings at the end of the reporting period(s). Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Revenues: Revenues [Abstract] Costs and expenses: Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Interest expense Interest Expense Real estate expense Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Nonproduction General and administrative General and Administrative Expense Impairment of assets Other expense Total costs and expenses Costs and Expenses Income (loss) before earnings from equity method investments and other items Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments and Other Items This element represents the income (loss) from continuing operations before income (loss) from equity method investments, gains (losses) on early extinguishment of debt, and other items. Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Income tax (expense) benefit Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Income (loss) from continuing operations(1) Income (loss) from discontinued operations Net income (loss) attributable to iStar Financial Inc. Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Net (income) loss allocable to HPU holders and Participating Security holders(2)(3) Net Income (Loss) Available to HPU Holders and Participating Security Holders, Basic Net income after adjustments for dividends on preferred stock (declared in the period) and/or cumulative preferred stock (accumulated for the period) available to HPU holders and Participating Security holders. Per common share data(1): Per Common Share Data [Abstract] Income (loss) attributable to iStar Financial Inc. from continuing operations: Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Basic and diluted (in dollars per share) Net income (loss) attributable to iStar Financial Inc.: Basic and diluted (in dollars per share) Per HPU share data(1)(2): Per HPU Share Data [Abstract] Income (loss) attributable to iStar Financial Inc. from continuing operations: Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Attributable to Parent (HPU) Abstract -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Basic and diluted (in dollars per share) Income (Loss) From Continuing Operations, Per HPU Basic and Diluted Share Income (Loss) From Continuing Operations, Per HPU Basic and Diluted Share Net income (loss) attributable to iStar Financial Inc.: Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Basic and diluted (in dollars per share) Earnings Per HPU Share, Basic and Diluted Earnings Per HPU Share, Basic and Diluted Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Recurring basis Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Non-recurring basis Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Total Quoted market prices in active markets (Level 1) Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Assets and liabilities recorded at fair value Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Derivative assets Derivative Asset Derivative liabilities Derivative Liability Impaired loans Impaired Loans Receivable Fair Value Disclosure This element represents impaired loans as of the end of the reporting period that are valued by the entity at fair value on the balance sheet date. Impaired real estate Impaired Other Real Estate Owned Fair Value Disclosure This element represents impaired OREOs held by the Company as of the end of the reporting period that are valued by the entity at fair value on the balance sheet date. Fair Value Inputs, Assets, Quantitative Information [Table] Fair Value Inputs, Assets, Quantitative Information [Table] Real Estate Properties Real Estate Properties [Member] Real Estate Properties [Member] Valuation Technique [Axis] Valuation Technique [Axis] Valuation Technique [Domain] Valuation Technique [Domain] Discounted Cash Flow Discounted Cash Flow Valuation Technique [Member] Discounted cash flow valuation technique used to measure fair value. Executed Settlement Agreement [Member] Executed Settlement Agreement [Member] Executed Settlement Agreement [Member] Quantitative information about Level 3 fair value measures Fair Value Inputs, Assets, Quantitative Information [Line Items] Number of impaired loans Number of Impaired Loans Number of Impaired Loans Impaired loans Number of Impaired Real Estate Assets Number of Impaired Real Estate Assets Number of Impaired Real Estate Assets Fair value assumptions, expected term Fair Value Assumptions, Weighted Average Expected Term Fair Value Assumptions, Weighted Average Expected Term Weighted average discount rate Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate Long-term revenue growth rate Fair Value Inputs, Long-term Revenue Growth Rate Remaining inventory sell out period Fair Value Inputs, Remaining Inventory Sell Out Period Fair Value Inputs, Remaining Inventory Sell Out Period Unsecured Credit Facilities Unsecured Credit Facilities [Member] Represents the unsecured credit facility of the entity. Minimum ratio of unencumbered assets to unsecured indebtedness Debt Instrument Covenant Ratio of Unencumbered Assets to Unsecured Indebtedness Represents the minimum ratio of encumbered assets to unsecured indebtedness required under the terms of the debt covenant. Multiple of the minimum collateral coverage on outstanding borrowings Debt Instrument Covenant Multiple of Minimum Collateral Coverage on Outstanding Borrowings Represents the multiple of the minimum collateral coverage on outstanding borrowings required under the terms of the debt covenant. Percentage of REIT taxable income permitted for distribution under debt covenants Debt Instrument Covenant Percentage of Taxable Income Permitted for Distribution if Reit classification is Maintained Represents the percentage of taxable income that is permitted for distribution, under the terms of the debt covenant, if the entity maintains its REIT qualification. Schedule of Real Estate Assets Schedule of Real Estate Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of Real Estate Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of Pro Forma Information, Business Combination Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block] Schedule of Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures Schedule of Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures [Table Text Block] Investment across a range of real estate sectors over the past two decades (more than $35 billion at December 31, 2012) Real Estate Investment Represents the amount invested across a range of real estate sectors by the entity over a period of time. Period over which the entity has made the investment across a range of real estate Real Estate, Investment Period Real Estate, Investment Period Accrued expenses Accrued Liabilities Other than Interest Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of obligations incurred and payable, pertaining to costs that are statutory in nature, are incurred on contractual obligations, or accumulate over time and for which invoices have not yet been received or will not be rendered. Examples include property accounts payable, legal liabilities, loan costs, general and administrative liabilities, but exclude interest. Accrued interest payable Interest Payable Intangible liabilities, net(1) Below Market Lease, Net Other liabilities Other Liabilities Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities Below market lease, accumulated amortization Below Market Lease, Accumulated Amortization Amortization of below market lease Amortization of Below Market Lease