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Document And Entity Information	9 Months Ended
Document And Entity Information	Sep. 30, 2013 shares
Document Information [Line Items]
Document Type	10-Q
Amendment Flag	false
Document Period End Date	Sep. 30, 2013
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2013
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q3
Trading Symbol	SUI
Entity Registrant Name	SUN COMMUNITIES INC
Entity Central Index Key	0000912593
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	36,139,992
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes

Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
ASSETS
Investment property, net	$ 1,695,317	$ 1,518,136
Cash and cash equivalents	4,955	29,508
Inventory of manufactured homes	4,005	7,527
Notes and other receivables, net	170,584	139,850
Other assets	61,830	59,607
TOTAL ASSETS	1,936,691	1,754,628
LIABILITIES
Debt	1,353,448	1,423,720
Lines of credit	54,765	29,781
Other liabilities	108,782	88,137
TOTAL LIABILITIES	1,516,995	1,541,638
Commitments and contingencies
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Preferred stock, $0.01 par value	34	34
Common stock, $0.01 par value	361	298
Additional paid-in capital	1,140,625	876,620
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(454)	(696)
Distributions in excess of accumulated earnings	(739,197)	(683,734)
Total Sun Communities, Inc. stockholders' equity	401,369	192,522
Noncontrolling interests:
Series A-1 preferred OP units	45,548	45,548
Series A-3 preferred OP units	3,463	0
Common OP units	(29,764)	(24,572)
Consolidated variable interest entities	(920)	(508)
Total noncontrolling interests	18,327	20,468
TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY	419,696	212,990
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY	1,936,691	1,754,628
Noncontrolling Interests
Noncontrolling interests:
TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY	$ 18,327	$ 20,468

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Variable Interest Entities, Consolidated, Investment Property, net	$ 56,326	$ 56,326
Variable Interest Entities, Consolidated, Debt	$ 45,386	$ 45,900
Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Preferred Stock, shares authorized	10,000	10,000
Preferred stock, shares issued and outstanding	3,400	3,400
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common Stock, Shares Authorized	90,000	90,000
Common stock, shares issued and outstanding	36,140	29,755
Treasury stock, shares	0	0

Consolidated Statements Of Operations - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
REVENUES
Income from real property	$ 80,158	$ 63,015	$ 234,969	$ 188,818
Revenue from home sales	14,145	10,461	40,200	31,513
Rental home revenue	8,445	6,712	23,783	19,514
Ancillary revenues, net	932	(112)	1,376	(124)
Interest income	3,442	2,847	9,587	7,907
Brokerage commissions and other income, net	79	95	349	530
Total revenues	107,201	83,018	310,264	248,158
COSTS AND EXPENSES
Property operating and maintenance	24,379	18,067	66,593	51,261
Real estate taxes	5,602	4,933	17,146	14,741
Cost of home sales	10,161	7,791	29,360	24,535
Rental home operating and maintenance	5,504	5,118	14,252	13,090
General and administrative - real property	5,927	5,165	19,086	15,405
General and administrative - home sales and rentals	2,227	1,905	7,473	5,985
Acquisition related costs	619	847	2,769	1,434
Depreciation and amortization	28,790	22,092	80,116	63,027
Interest	17,823	17,066	54,888	50,644
Interest on mandatorily redeemable debt	809	825	2,430	2,499
Total expenses	101,841	83,809	294,113	242,621
Income (loss) before income taxes and distributions from affiliates	5,360	(791)	16,151	5,537
Provision for state income taxes	(90)	(84)	(186)	(190)
Distributions from affiliate	700	600	1,550	3,250
Net income (loss)	5,970	(275)	17,515	8,597
Less: Preferred return to A-1 preferred OP units	690	586	1,909	1,744
Less: Preferred return to Series A-3 preferred OP units	45	0	121	0
Less: Amounts attributable to noncontrolling interests	(28)	(211)	415	463
Net income attributable to Sun Communities, Inc.	5,263	(650)	15,070	6,390
Less: Series A preferred stock distributions	1,514	0	4,542	0
Net income attributable to Sun Communities, Inc. common stockholders	$ 3,749	$ (650)	$ 10,528	$ 6,390
Weighted average common shares outstanding:
Basic	36,128	26,938	34,263	26,427
Diluted	36,143	26,938	34,279	26,444
Earnings per share:
Basic	$ 0.10	$ (0.02)	$ 0.31	$ 0.24
Diluted	0.10	(0.02)	0.31	0.24
Dividends per common share:	$ 0.63	$ 0.63	$ 1.89	$ 1.89
Series A-1 Preferred OP Units [Member]
COSTS AND EXPENSES
Less: Preferred return to A-1 preferred OP units	$ 690	$ 586	$ 1,909	$ 1,744
Series A-3 Preferred OP Units [Member]
COSTS AND EXPENSES
Less: Preferred return to Series A-3 preferred OP units	$ 45	$ 0	$ 121	$ 0

Consolidated Statements Of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Net income (loss)	$ 5,970	$ (275)	$ 17,515	$ 8,597
Unrealized gain on interest rate swaps	89	44	266	643
Total comprehensive income (loss)	6,059	(231)	17,781	9,240
Less: Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to the noncontrolling interests	(20)	(206)	439	529
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Sun Communities, Inc. common stockholders	$ 6,079	$ (25)	$ 17,342	$ 8,711

- Definition

The change in equity [net assets] of a business enterprise during a period from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources which are attributable to the reporting entity. It includes all changes in equity during a period except those resulting from investments by owners and distributions to owners, but excludes any and all transactions which are directly or indirectly attributable to that ownership interest in subsidiary equity which is not attributable to the parent.

+ References + Details

- Definition

The change in equity [net assets] of a business enterprise during a period from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources which are attributable to noncontrolling interests. It includes all changes in equity during a period except those resulting from investments by owners and distributions to owners, which are directly or indirectly attributable to that ownership interest in subsidiary equity which is not attributable to the parent.

+ References + Details

- Definition

The change in equity [net assets] of a business enterprise during a period from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources which are attributable to the economic entity, including both controlling (parent) and noncontrolling interests. It includes all changes in equity during a period except those resulting from investments by owners and distributions to owners, including any and all transactions which are directly or indirectly attributable to that ownership interest in subsidiary equity which is not attributable to the parent.

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- Definition

Net of tax amount, before reclassification adjustments, of the change in accumulated gain (loss) from derivative instruments designated and qualifying as the effective portion of cash flow hedges. Also includes an entity's share of an equity investee's increase (decrease) in deferred hedging gain (loss).

+ References

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- Definition

The consolidated profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, including the portion attributable to the noncontrolling interest.

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Consolidated Statement Of Stockholders' Equity (Deficit) - 9 months ended Sep. 30, 2013 - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Total	Series A Preferred Stock	Common Stock	Additional Paid-in Capital	Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income	Distributions in Excess of Accumulated Earnings	Noncontrolling Interests	Total Stockholders' Equity (Deficit)
Balance at Dec. 31, 2012	$ 212,990	$ 34	$ 298	$ 876,620	$ (696)	$ (683,734)	$ 20,468	$ 212,990
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Issuance of common stock from exercise of options, net		0	0	201	0	0	0	201
Issuance and associated costs of common stock, net		0	63	261,717	0	0	0	261,780
Issuance of preferred OP units		0	0	0	0	0	3,463	3,463
Share-based compensation - amortization and forfeitures		0	0	2,087	0	89	0	2,176
Net income	17,515	0	0	0	0	17,100	415	17,515
Unrealized gain on interest rate swaps	266	0	0	0	242	0	24	266
Distributions	(4,510)	0	0	0	0	72,652	6,043	(78,695)
Balance at Sep. 30, 2013	$ 419,696	$ 34	$ 361	$ 1,140,625	$ (454)	$ (739,197)	$ 18,327	$ 419,696

The consolidated profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, including the portion attributable to the noncontrolling interest.

+ References

+ Details

- Definition

Amount of stockholders' equity (deficit), net of receivables from officers, directors, owners, and affiliates of the entity, attributable to both the parent and noncontrolling interests. Amount excludes temporary equity. Alternate caption for the concept is permanent equity.

+ References + Details

Consolidated Statements Of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Net income	$ 17,515	$ 8,597
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Gain from land disposition	(761)	(87)
Gain on valuation of derivative instruments	0	(4)
Stock compensation expense	2,176	1,070
Depreciation and amortization	75,070	61,144
Amortization of deferred financing costs	2,212	1,252
Distributions from affiliate	(1,550)	(3,250)
Change in notes receivable from financed sales of inventory homes, net of repayments	(10,089)	(6,466)
Change in inventory, other assets and other receivables, net	7,406	1,892
Change in accounts payable and other liabilities	2,347	(6,221)
NET CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES	94,326	57,927
INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Investment in properties	(140,681)	(90,331)
Acquisitions	(82,718)	(59,734)
Payments to Acquire Notes Receivable	49,441	0
Proceeds related to affiliate dividend distribution	1,550	3,250
Proceeds related to disposition of land	0	172
Proceeds related to disposition of assets and depreciated homes, net	757	1,355
Increase in notes receivable, net	224	(6,054)
NET CASH USED IN INVESTING ACTIVITIES	(270,309)	(151,342)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Issuance and associated costs of common stock, OP units and preferred OP units, net	261,780	300,793
Net proceeds from stock option exercise	201	149
Distributions to stockholders, OP unit holders, and preferred OP unit holders	(74,185)	(52,928)
Payments to retire preferred operating patnership units	(300)	0
Borrowings on lines of credit	260,248	149,511
Payments on lines of credit	(235,264)	(275,557)
Proceeds from issuance of other debt	24,368	83,427
Payments on other debt	(82,668)	(77,804)
Payments for deferred financing costs	(2,750)	(1,309)
NET CASH PROVIDED BY FOR FINANCING ACTIVITIES	151,430	126,282
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	(24,553)	32,867
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	29,508	5,857
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	4,955	38,724
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION:
Cash paid for interest	44,595	42,834
Cash paid for interest on mandatorily redeemable debt	2,430	2,499
Cash paid for state income taxes	158	320
Noncash investing and financing activities:
Unrealized gain on interest rate swaps	266	643
Reduction in secured borrowing balance	11,534	9,246
Change in dividends declared and outstanding	4,510	4,814
Noncash investing and financing activities at the date of acquisition:
Acquisitions - A-1 preferred OP units issued	3,463	0
Acquisitions - release of note receivable and accrued interest	$ 49,441	$ 0

Consolidated Statements Of Cash Flows Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Interest Costs Capitalized	$ 424	$ 0

Basis of Presentation	9 Months Ended
Basis of Presentation	Sep. 30, 2013
1. Basis of Presentation [Abstract]
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block]	Basis of Presentation The unaudited interim consolidated financial statements of Sun Communities, Inc., a Maryland corporation, and all wholly-owned or majority-owned and controlled subsidiaries, including Sun Communities Operating Limited Partnership (the “Operating Partnership”), SunChamp LLC (“SunChamp”), and Sun Home Services, Inc. (“SHS”), have been prepared pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) for interim financial information and in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”). Certain information and footnote disclosures required for annual financial statements have been condensed or excluded pursuant to SEC rules and regulations. Accordingly, the interim financial statements do not include all of the information and footnotes required by GAAP for complete financial statements. The accompanying consolidated financial statements reflect, in the opinion of management, all adjustments, including adjustments of a normal and recurring nature, necessary for a fair presentation of the interim financial statements. Certain reclassifications have been made to prior periods’ financial statements in order to conform to current period presentation. The results of operations for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of results that may be expected for any other interim period or for the full year. These interim consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012 as filed with the SEC on February 25, 2013 and amended on February 27, 2013 (the “2012 Annual Report”). These statements have been prepared on a basis that is substantially consistent with the accounting principles applied in our 2012 Annual Report. Reference in this report to Sun Communities, Inc., “we”, “our”, “us” and the “Company” refer to Sun Communities, Inc. and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for organization, consolidation and basis of presentation of financial statements disclosure.

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+ Details

Real Estate Acquisitions

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Business Combinations [Abstract]

Real Estate Acquisitions

During the second quarter of 2013, we acquired Big Timber Lake RV Resort ("Big Timber Lake"), a recreational vehicle ("RV") community with approximately 528 sites located in Cape May, New Jersey, and Jellystone RV Resort ("Jellystone"), an RV community with approximately 299 sites located in North Java, New York.

During the first quarter of 2013, we acquired ten RV communities from Gwynns Island RV Resort LLC, Indian Creek RV Resort LLC, Lake Laurie RV Resort LLC, Newpoint RV Resort LLC, Peters Pond RV Resort Inc., Seaport LLC, Virginia Tent LLC, Wagon Wheel Maine LLC, Westward Ho RV Resort LLC and Wild Acres LLC (collectively, "Morgan RV Properties"), with approximately 3,700 sites located in Ohio, Virginia, Maine, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Jersey and Wisconsin. In connection with the acquisition, we also recorded a contingent asset of $10.0 million as of the acquisition date which resulted from a covenant made by the seller in the Second Amendment to Omnibus Agreement related to the 2012 revenue of the acquired properties. The contingent asset was estimated using a probability weighted model of the potential shortfall in the 2012 revenue from that represented by the seller and is recorded at its estimated fair value in notes and other receivables.

The following tables summarize the amounts of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed recognized at the acquisition dates and the consideration paid for acquisitions completed in 2013 (in thousands):



At Acquisition Date	Morgan RV Properties			Jellystone			Big Timber Lake			Total
Investment in property	$	95,145		$	8,264		$	21,548		$	124,957
Inventory of manufactured homes	4,253			1,490			350			6,093
Notes and other receivables	10,000			—			—			10,000
In-place leases and other intangible assets	2,664			390			580			3,634
Other assets	157			7			48			212
Below market leases	—			—			(3,490		)	(3,490		)
Other liabilities	(3,697		)	(930		)	(1,157		)	(5,784		)
Total identifiable assets and liabilities assumed	$	108,522		$	9,221		$	17,879		$	135,622

Consideration
Cash	$	55,618		$	9,221		$	17,879		$	82,718
Series A-3 preferred OP units	3,463			—			—			3,463
Extinguishment of note receivable	49,441			—			—			49,441
Fair value of total consideration transferred	$	108,522		$	9,221		$	17,879		$	135,622

The purchase price allocations for Morgan RV Properties, Jellystone and Big Timber Lake are preliminary and may be adjusted as final costs and final valuations are determined.

The amount of revenue and net income included in the consolidated statements of operations for the the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 for all acquisitions described above is set forth in the following table (in thousands):



	Three Months Ended September 30, 2013		Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013
	(unaudited)
Revenue	$	7,598	$	11,734
Net income	$	2,021	$	2,866

2. Real Estate Acquisitions, continued

The following unaudited pro forma financial information presents the results of our operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 as if the properties were acquired on January 1, 2012. The unaudited pro forma results reflect certain adjustments for items that are not expected to have a continuing impact, such as adjustments for acquisition costs incurred, management fees and purchase accounting. The information presented below has been prepared for comparative purposes only and does not purport to be indicative of either future results of operations or the results of operations that would have actually occurred had the acquisitions been consummated on January 1, 2012 (in thousands, except per-share data).



	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
	(unaudited)
	2013		2012		2013		2012
Total revenues	$	103,838	$	90,515	$	314,029	$	264,055
Net income attributable to Sun Communities, Inc. shareholders	$	4,137	$	4,294	$	14,427	$	14,294
Net income per share attributable to Sun Communities, Inc. shareholders - basic	$	0.11	$	0.16	$	0.42	$	0.54
Net income per share attributable to Sun Communities, Inc. shareholders - diluted	$	0.11	$	0.16	$	0.42	$	0.54

Acquisition related costs of approximately $0.6 million and $0.8 million and $2.8 million and $1.4 million have been incurred for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively, and are presented as “Acquisition related costs” in our consolidated statements of operations.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for a business combination (or series of individually immaterial business combinations) completed during the period, including background, timing, and recognized assets and liabilities. The disclosure may include leverage buyout transactions (as applicable).

+ References

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-Paragraph 4
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-Publisher FASB
-Name Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF)
-Number 88-16
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Reference 17: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 141R
-Paragraph F4
-Subparagraph e
-Appendix F

Reference 18: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Number 141
-Paragraph 51, 52
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

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-Number 141R
-Paragraph 67-73
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

+ Details

Investment Property

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Real Estate Investment Property, Net [Abstract]

Investment Property

The following table sets forth certain information regarding investment property (in thousands):



	September 30, 2013			December 31, 2012
Land	$	191,589		$	178,993
Land improvements and buildings	1,752,996			1,608,825
Rental homes and improvements	375,296			305,838
Furniture, fixtures, and equipment	60,139			54,354
Land held for future development	29,521			29,295
Investment property	2,409,541			2,177,305
Accumulated depreciation	(714,224		)	(659,169		)
Investment property, net	$	1,695,317		$	1,518,136

Land improvements and buildings consist primarily of infrastructure, roads, landscaping, clubhouses, maintenance buildings and amenities.

See Note 2, "Real Estate Acquisitions", for details on recent acquisitions.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for certain real estate investment financial statements, real estate investment trust operating support agreements, real estate owned, retail land sales, time share transactions, as well as other real estate related disclosures.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 970
-SubTopic 360
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.12-28)
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-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 11
-Article 9

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-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Reference 12: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Reference 14: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Reference 16: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Paragraph 6
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-Article 5

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-Chapter 11
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Reference 19: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Number 46R
-Paragraph 23, 24
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

+ Details

Transfers Of Financial Assets

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Transfers and Servicing [Abstract]

Transfers Of Financial Assets

Transfers of Financial Assets

We completed various transactions with an unrelated entity involving our notes receivable under which we received cash proceeds in exchange for relinquishing our right, title and interest in certain notes receivable. We have no further obligations or rights with respect to the control, management, administration, servicing, or collection of the installment notes. However, we are subject to certain recourse provisions requiring us to purchase the underlying homes collateralizing such notes, in the event of a note default and subsequent repossession of the home by the unrelated entity. The recourse provisions are considered to be a form of continuing involvement, and therefore these transferred loans did not meet the requirements for sale accounting. We continue to recognize these transferred loans on our balance sheet and refer to them as collateralized receivables. The proceeds from the transfer have been recognized as a secured borrowing.

In the event of note default, and subsequent repossession of a manufactured home by the unrelated entity, the terms of the agreement require us to repurchase the manufactured home. Default is defined as the failure to repay the installment note according to contractual terms. The repurchase price is calculated as a percentage of the outstanding principal balance of the collateralized receivable, plus any outstanding late fees, accrued interest, legal fees, and escrow advances associated with the installment note. The percentage used to determine the repurchase price of the outstanding principal balance on the installment note is based on the number of payments made on the note. In general, the repurchase price is determined as follows:



Number of Payments	Repurchase %
Less than or equal to 15	100	%
Greater than 15 but less than 64	90	%
Equal to or greater than 64 but less than 120	65	%
120 or more	50	%

The transferred assets have been classified as collateralized receivables in Notes and Other Receivables (see Note 5), and the cash proceeds received from these transactions have been classified as a secured borrowing in Debt (see Note 9) within the consolidated balance sheets. The balance of the collateralized receivables was $106.5 million (net of allowance of $0.7 million) and $93.8 million (net of allowance of $0.6 million) as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively. The outstanding balance on the secured borrowing was $107.2 million and $94.4 million as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively.

The balances of the collateralized receivables and secured borrowings fluctuate. The balances increase as additional notes receivable are transferred and exchanged for cash proceeds. The balances are reduced as the related collateralized receivables are collected from the customers, or as the underlying collateral is repurchased. The change in the aggregate gross principal balance of the collateralized receivables is as follows (in thousands):



	Nine Months Ended
	September 30, 2013
Beginning balance	$	94,409
Financed sales of manufactured homes	24,368
Principal payments and payoffs from our customers	(4,834		)
Principal reduction from repurchased homes	(6,700		)
Total activity	12,834
Ending balance	$	107,243

The collateralized receivables earn interest income, and the secured borrowings accrue interest expense at the same interest rates. The amount of interest income and expense recognized was $2.7 million and $2.4 million and $7.7 million and $6.8 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for a transferor's continuing involvement in financial assets that it has transferred in a securitization or asset-backed financing arrangement, the nature of any restrictions on assets reported by an entity in its statement of financial position that relate to a transferred financial asset (including the carrying amounts of such assets), how servicing assets and servicing liabilities are reported, and (for securitization or asset-backed financing arrangements accounted for as sales) when a transferor has continuing involvement with the transferred financial assets and transfers of financial assets accounted for as secured borrowings, how the transfer of financial assets affects an entity's financial position, financial performance, and cash flows.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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-Name FASB Staff Position (FSP)
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Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 140
-Paragraph 17
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Reference 11: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

+ Details

Notes And Other Receivables

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Long-term Notes and Loans, by Type, Current and Noncurrent [Abstract]

Notes And Other Receivables

Notes and Other Receivables

The following table sets forth certain information regarding notes and other receivables (in thousands):



	September 30, 2013		December 31, 2012
Installment notes receivable on manufactured homes, net	$	24,605	$	21,898
Collateralized receivables, net (see Note 4)	106,566		93,834
Other receivables, net	39,413		24,118
Total notes and other receivables, net	$	170,584	$	139,850

Installment Notes Receivable on Manufactured Homes

The installment notes of $24.6 million (net of allowance of $0.1 million) and $21.9 million (net of allowance of 0.1 million) as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively, are collateralized by manufactured homes. The notes represent financing provided by us to purchasers of manufactured homes primarily located in our communities and require monthly principal and interest payments. The notes have a net weighted average interest rate and maturity of 8.9 percent and 11.9 years as of September 30, 2013, and 8.6 percent and 11.0 years as of December 31, 2012.

The change in the aggregate gross principal balance of the installment notes is as follows (in thousands):



	Nine Months Ended
	September 30, 2013
Beginning balance	$	22,019
Financed sales of manufactured homes	6,354
Principal payments and payoffs from our customers	(2,962		)
Principal reduction from repossessed homes	(675		)
Total activity	2,717
Ending balance	$	24,736

Collateralized Receivables

Collateralized receivables represent notes receivable that were transferred to a third party, but did not meet the requirements for sale accounting (see Note 4). The receivables have a balance of $106.5 million (net of allowance of $0.7 million) and $93.8 million (net of allowance of $0.6 million ) as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively. The receivables have a net weighted average interest rate and maturity of 10.7 percent and 13.5 years as of September 30, 2013, and 11.0 percent and 13.2 years as of December 31, 2012.

In January 2013, we entered into an agreement with Talmer Bank under which we may refer purchasers of homes in our communities to Talmer Bank to obtain loans to finance their home purchases. We do not receive referral fees or other cash compensation under the agreement. If Talmer Bank makes loans to purchasers referred by us under the agreement, and those purchasers default on their loans and Talmer Bank repossesses the homes securing such loans, we have agreed to purchase from Talmer Bank each such repossessed home for a price equal to 100% of the amount under each such loan, subject to certain adjustments; provided that the maximum outstanding principal amount of the loans subject to the agreement may not exceed $10.0 million. In addition, we have agreed to waive all site rent that would otherwise be due from Talmer Bank so long as it owns any homes on which loans were made pursuant to the agreement. The agreement expires November 1, 2013, but may be extended by mutual agreement of Talmer Bank and us. As of September 30, 2013, there have been no transactions under the agreement.

Each of Robert H. Naftaly and Arthur A. Weiss, who serve on our board of directors, is also a director of each of Talmer Bancorp, Inc. and its primary operating subsidiary, Talmer Bank. Each of Mr. Naftaly, Mr. Weiss, and Gary A. Shiffman, our Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer, also owns less than one percent of Talmer Bancorp, Inc.'s common stock and may have a conflict of interest with respect to his obligations as our officer and/or director and his capacity as a shareholder and/or director of Talmer Bancorp, Inc. and Talmer Bank.

5. Notes and Other Receivables, continued

Allowance for Losses for Collateralized and Installment Notes Receivable

The following table sets forth the allowance for collateralized and installment notes receivable as of September 30, 2013 (in thousands).



	Nine Months Ended
	September 30, 2013
Beginning balance	$	(697	)
Lower of cost or market write-downs	322
Increase to reserve balance	(433		)
Total activity	(111		)
Ending balance	$	(808	)

Other Receivables

As of September 30, 2013, other receivables were comprised of amounts due from residents for rent and water and sewer usage of $8.0 million (net of allowance of $0.6 million), home sale proceeds of $6.3 million, insurance receivables of $2.5 million, insurance settlement of $3.7 million, rebates and other receivables of $3.6 million, a contingent asset of $10.0 million (see Note 2, "Real Estate Acquisitions") and a note receivable of $5.3 million. The note bears interest at LIBOR plus 475 basis points, is secured by senior mortgages on two RV communities, a pledge of $4.0 million in Series A-3 Preferred OP Units, a subordinated interest in cash collateral account and equity interests in another RV community and is due on May 31, 2014. As of December 31, 2012, other receivables were comprised of amounts due from residents for rent and water and sewer usage of $4.1 million (net of allowance of $0.5 million), home sale proceeds of $6.1 million, insurance receivables of $1.7 million, insurance settlement of $3.7 million, note receivable of $5.0 million, and rebates and other receivables of $3.5 million.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for claims held for amounts due a entity, excluding financing receivables. Examples include, but are not limited to, trade accounts receivables, notes receivables, loans receivables. Includes disclosure for allowance for credit losses.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 310
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 3
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=7512638&loc=d3e5066-111524

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 210
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.3,4)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 310
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 11
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=7512638&loc=d3e5162-111524

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 235
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.4-08.(k))
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6881521&loc=d3e23780-122690

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 310
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 4
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=7512638&loc=d3e5074-111524

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Statement of Position (SOP)
-Number 01-6
-Paragraph 13
-Subparagraph d
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 02
-Paragraph 3, 4
-Article 5

Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 7
-Article 9

Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 08
-Paragraph k
-Article 4

+ Details

Intangibles	9 Months Ended
Intangibles	Sep. 30, 2013
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block]	Intangibles Our intangible assets include in-place leases from acquisitions and capitalized costs in relation to leasing costs. These intangible assets are recorded within other assets on the consolidated balance sheets. They are amortized over a seven year amortization period. The gross carrying amount is $39.0 million and $35.3 million at September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively. The accumulated amortization is $13.8 million and $11.8 million at September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively. Aggregate net amortization expense related to intangible assets was $1.2 million and $0.7 million and $3.6 million and $2.2 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Investment In Affiliates

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract]

Investment In Affiliates

Investment in Affiliates

Origen Financial Services, LLC (“OFS LLC”)

At September 30, 2013 and 2012, we had a 22.9 percent ownership interest in OFS LLC, an entity formed to originate manufactured housing installment contracts. We have suspended equity accounting as the carrying value of our investment is zero.

Origen Financial, Inc. (“Origen”)

Through Sun OFI, LLC, a taxable REIT subsidiary, we own 5,000,000 shares of common stock of Origen which approximates an ownership interest of 19 percent. Although it is no longer originating or servicing loans, Origen continues to manage an existing portfolio of manufactured home loans and asset backed securities. We have suspended equity accounting for this investment as the carrying value of our investment is zero. We do, however, receive income from dividends on our shares of Origen common stock. Per Origen's earnings release dated August 29, 2013, the dividend payment represented a return of capital. Our investment in Origen had a market value of approximately $5.8 million based on a quoted market closing price of $1.15 per share from the OTC Pink Marketplace as of September 30, 2013.

The following table sets forth certain summarized unaudited financial information for Origen (amounts in thousands):



	Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
	(unaudited)
	2013			2012			2013			2012
Revenues	$	12,079		$	14,228		$	37,959		$	50,608
Expenses	(13,123		)	(16,619		)	(40,683		)	(52,427		)
Net loss	$	(1,044	)	$	(2,391	)	$	(2,724	)	$	(1,819	)

- Definition

The entire disclosure for equity method investments and joint ventures. Equity method investments are investments that give the investor the ability to exercise significant influence over the operating and financial policies of an investee. Joint ventures are entities owned and operated by a small group of businesses as a separate and specific business or project for the mutual benefit of the members of the group.

+ References + Details

Consolidated Variable Interest Entities

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

DisclosureofVariableInterestEntities [Abstract]

DisclosureOfVariableInterestEntities [Text Block]

Consolidated Variable Interest Entities

Variable interest entities ("VIEs") that are consolidated include Rudgate Village SPE, LLC, Rudgate Clinton SPE, LLC and Rudgate Clinton Estates SPE, LLC (the “Rudgate Borrowers”). We concluded that the Rudgate Borrowers qualify as VIEs as we are the primary beneficiary and hold a controlling financial interest in these entities due to our power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the economic performance of the entities, as well as our obligation to absorb the most significant losses and our rights to receive significant benefits from these entities. As such, the transactions and accounts of these VIEs are included in the accompanying consolidated financial statements.

The following table summarizes the assets and liabilities included in our consolidated balance sheet after appropriate eliminations (in thousands):



	September 30, 2013			December 31, 2012
ASSETS
Investment property, net	$	56,326		$	56,326
Other assets	3,882			4,598
Total Assets	$	60,208		$	60,924

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Debt	$	45,386		$	45,900
Other liabilities	5,012			1,773
Noncontrolling interests	(920		)	(508		)
Total Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity	$	49,478		$	47,165

Investment property, net and other assets related to the consolidated VIEs comprised approximately 3.1 percent and 3.5 percent of our consolidated total assets and debt and other liabilities comprised approximately 3.3 percent and 3.1 percent of our consolidated total liabilities at September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively. Noncontrolling interest related to the consolidated VIEs comprised less than 1.0 percent of our consolidated total equity at September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012.

Debt And Lines Of Credit

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Debt Disclosure [Abstract]

Debt Disclosure [Text Block]

Debt and Lines of Credit

The following table sets forth certain information regarding debt (in thousands):



	Principal Outstanding				Weighted Average Years to Maturity		Weighted Average Interest Rates
	September 30, 2013		December 31, 2012		September 30, 2013	December 31, 2012	September 30, 2013		December 31, 2012
Collateralized term loans - CMBS	$	682,368	$	725,951	4.1	4.5	5.4	%	5.2	%
Collateralized term loans - FNMA	366,917		369,810		9.6	10.3	3.6	%	3.8	%
Aspen and Series B-3 preferred OP Units	47,022		47,322		7.9	8.4	6.9	%	6.9	%
Secured borrowing (see Note 4)	107,243		94,409		13.4	12.8	10.7	%	11.0	%
Mortgage notes, other	149,898		186,228		6.0	6.2	4.6	%	4.3	%
Total debt	$	1,353,448	$	1,423,720	6.5	6.8	5.3	%	5.2	%

Collateralized Term Loans

In May 2013, we extended $151.4 million of Fannie Mae (FNMA) debt until May 1, 2023, which had an original maturity date of May 1, 2013. The current weighted average interest rate on this debt is 4.3%.

The collateralized term loans totaling $1.0 billion as of September 30, 2013, are secured by 99 properties comprised of 39,342 sites representing approximately $668.0 million of net book value.

9. Debt and Lines of Credit, continued

Aspen Preferred OP Units and Series B-3 Preferred OP units

The Aspen preferred OP units are convertible into 526,212 common shares based on a conversion price of $68 per share with a redemption date of January 1, 2024. The current preferred rate is 6.5%.

Secured Borrowing

See Note 4, "Transfers of Financial Assets", for additional information regarding our collateralized receivables and secured borrowing transactions.

Mortgage Notes

In May 2013, we paid off the entire $3.5 million mortgage agreement secured by Holiday West Village upon maturity.

In April 2013, we paid off the sellers note associated with the acquisition of Rainbow RV Resort. The note had a principal balance of $0.6 million and did not incur any interest.

In January 2013, we paid off the sellers note associated with the acquisition of Palm Creek Golf & RV Resort. The note had a principal balance of $36.0 million and an interest rate of 2.0%. We also paid off the remaining $30.0 million outstanding under our $36.0 million variable financing loan from Bank of America, N.A. and The Private Bank.

The mortgage notes totaling $149.9 million as of September 30, 2013, are collateralized by 20 properties comprised of 8,317 sites representing approximately $252.4 million of net book value.

Lines of Credit

In May 2013, we entered into a credit agreement with Citibank, N.A. and certain other lenders consisting of a $350.0 million senior secured revolving credit facility (the "Facility"). The Facility replaced our previous $150.0 million senior secured revolving credit facility, which was scheduled to mature on October 1, 2014 and incurred interest at a floating rate based on the Eurodollar rate plus a margin that was determined based on our leverage ratio calculated in accordance with the previous credit agreement, which ranged from 2.25% to 2.95%.

The Facility has a four year term ending May 15, 2017, which can be extended for one additional year at our option, subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions as defined in the credit agreement. The credit agreement also provides for, subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions, additional commitments in an amount not to exceed $250.0 million. The Facility bears interest at a floating rate based on the Eurodollar rate plus a margin that is determined based on our leverage ratio calculated in accordance with the credit agreement, which can range from 1.65% to 2.90%. Based on our calculation of the leverage ratio as of September 30, 2013, the margin was 1.65%. At September 30, 2013, we had approximately $51.7 million outstanding under the Facility. There was no amount outstanding on the previous senior secured revolving credit facility at December 31, 2012. At September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, approximately $4.0 million of availability was used to back standby letters of credit.

The Facility is secured by a first priority lien on all of our equity interests in each entity that owns all or a portion of the properties constituting the borrowing base and collateral assignments of our senior and junior debt positions in certain borrowing base properties.

In February 2013, we entered into a $61.5 million credit agreement to fund a portion of the purchase of the Morgan RV Properties acquisition (See Note 2 "Real Estate Acquisitions"). This loan was paid off in March 2013.

We also have a $20.0 million secured line of credit agreement collateralized by a portion of our rental home portfolio, which was reduced from $50.0 million in July 2013. The net book value of the rental homes pledged as security for the loan must meet or exceed 200% of the outstanding loan balance. The terms of the agreement require interest only payments for the first five years, with the remainder of the term being amortized based on a 10 year term. The interest rate is the prime rate as published in the Wall Street Journal adjusted the first day of each calendar month plus 200 basis points with a minimum rate of 5.5%. At September 30, 2013, the effective interest rate was 5.5%, and there was no amount outstanding. At December 31, 2012, we had $25.0 million outstanding on $50.0 million of availability under this line of credit.

9. Debt and Lines of Credit, continued

Lastly, we have a $12.0 million manufactured home floor plan facility renewable indefinitely until our lender provides us a twelve month notice of their intent to terminate the agreement. The interest rate is 100 basis points over the greater of the prime rate as quoted in the Wall Street Journal on the first business day of each month or 6.0%. At September 30, 2013 the effective interest rate was 7.0%. The outstanding balance was $3.1 million and $4.8 million at September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively.

Covenants

The most restrictive of our debt agreements place limitations on secured borrowings and contain minimum fixed charge coverage, leverage, distribution and net worth requirements. At September 30, 2013, we were in compliance with all covenants.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for information about short-term and long-term debt arrangements, which includes amounts of borrowings under each line of credit, note payable, commercial paper issue, bonds indenture, debenture issue, own-share lending arrangements and any other contractual agreement to repay funds, and about the underlying arrangements, rationale for a classification as long-term, including repayment terms, interest rates, collateral provided, restrictions on use of assets and activities, whether or not in compliance with debt covenants, and other matters important to users of the financial statements, such as the effects of refinancing and noncompliance with debt covenants.

+ References + Details

Equity Transactions	9 Months Ended
Equity Transactions	Sep. 30, 2013
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]
Equity Transactions	Equity Transactions The Company is incorporated in the state of Maryland and under the law of that state the concept of treasury shares does not exist. All shares repurchased are considered authorized but unissued. Accordingly, we have retrospectively reclassified $63.6 million from treasury stock to common stock and additional paid in capital on our consolidated balance sheet. In March 2013, we closed an underwritten registered public offering of 5,750,000 shares of common stock at a price of $45.25 per share. The net proceeds from the offering were $249.5 million after deducting underwriting discounts and the expenses related to the offering. We used a portion of the proceeds to pay down debt. We used the remaining net proceeds of the offering to fund the acquisition of properties and for working capital and general corporate purposes. In February 2013, we issued $4.0 million of A-3 preferred OP units in connection with the Morgan RV Properties acquisition (see Note 2). A-3 preferred OP unit holders can convert the A-3 preferred OP units into shares of common stock based upon a conversion price of $53.75 per share. The A-3 preferred OP unit holders receive a preferred return of 4.5% per year. In November 2004, our Board of Directors authorized us to repurchase up to 1,000,000 shares of our common stock. We have 400,000 common shares remaining in the repurchase program. No common shares were repurchased during 2013 or 2012. There is no expiration date specified for the buyback program. Common OP unit holders can convert their common OP units into an equivalent number of shares of common stock at any time. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, there were no units converted to common stock. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012, holders of common OP units converted zero and 2,000 units to common stock, respectively. Cash dividends of $0.63 per share were declared for the quarter ended September 30, 2013. On October 18, 2013 cash payments of approximately $24.1 million for aggregate dividends, distributions and dividend equivalents were made to common stockholders, common OP unitholders and restricted stockholders of record as of September 30, 2013. In addition, cash dividends of $0.4453 per share were declared on the Company's Series A cumulative redeemable preferred stock. On October 15, 2013 cash payments of approximately $1.5 million for aggregate dividends were made to Series A cumulative redeemable preferred stockholders of record as of October 2, 2013.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for shareholders' equity, comprised of portions attributable to the parent entity and noncontrolling interest, if any, including other comprehensive income (as applicable). Including, but not limited to: (1) balances of common stock, preferred stock, additional paid-in capital, other capital and retained earnings; (2) accumulated balance for each classification of other comprehensive income and total amount of comprehensive income; (3) amount and nature of changes in separate accounts, including the number of shares authorized and outstanding, number of shares issued upon exercise and conversion, and for other comprehensive income, the adjustments for reclassifications to net income; (4) rights and privileges of each class of stock authorized; (5) basis of treasury stock, if other than cost, and amounts paid and accounting treatment for treasury stock purchased significantly in excess of market; (6) dividends paid or payable per share and in the aggregate for each class of stock for each period presented; (7) dividend restrictions and accumulated preferred dividends in arrears (in aggregate and per share amount); (8) retained earnings appropriations or restrictions, such as dividend restrictions; (9) impact of change in accounting principle, initial adoption of new accounting principle and correction of an error in previously issued financial statements; (10) shares held in trust for Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP); (11) deferred compensation related to issuance of capital stock; (12) note received for issuance of stock; (13) unamortized discount on shares; (14) description, terms, and number of warrants or rights outstanding; (15) shares under subscription and subscription receivables, effective date of new retained earnings after quasi-reorganization and deficit eliminated by quasi-reorganization and, for a period of at least ten years after the effective date, the point in time from which the new retained dates; and (16) retroactive effective of subsequent change in capital structure.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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-Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB)
-Number 43
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-Chapter 1
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 15: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB)
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Reference 16: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Number 210
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Reference 23: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 04
-Article 3

+ Details

Share-Based Compensation	9 Months Ended
Share-Based Compensation	Sep. 30, 2013
Share-based Compensation [Abstract]
Share-Based Compensation	Share-Based Compensation In August 2013, we granted 36,000 shares of restricted stock to employees under our Sun Communities, Inc. Equity Incentive Plan ("2009 Equity Plan"). The restricted shares had a fair value of $48.22 per share and will vest as follows: August 6, 2016: 35 percent; August 6, 2017: 35 percent; August 6, 2018: 20 percent; August 6, 2019: five percent; and August 6, 2020: five percent. The fair value was determined using the closing price of our common stock on the date the shares were issued. In June 2013, we granted 250,000 shares of restricted stock to an executive officer under our 2009 Equity Plan. The restricted shares had a fair value of $47.56 per share and will vest as follows: June 20, 2016: 87,500 shares; June 20, 2017: 87,500 shares; June 20, 2018: 50,000 shares; June 20, 2019: 12,500 shares; and June 20, 2020: 12,500 shares. The fair value was determined using the closing price of our common stock on the date the shares were issued. 11. Share-Based Compensation, continued In March 2013, we granted 1,000 shares of restricted stock to employees under our 2009 Equity Plan. The awards vest on March 12, 2016, and had a fair value of $45.68 per share. The fair value was determined using the closing price of our common stock on the date the shares were issued. In February 2013, we granted 73,000 shares of restricted stock to our executive officers under our 2009 Equity Plan. The awards vest ratably over a six or eight year period beginning on the fourth anniversary of the grant date, and had a fair value of $45.69 per share. The fair value was determined by using the closing share price of our common stock on the date the shares were issued. In February 2013, we granted 10,800 shares of restricted stock to our directors under our First Amended and Restated 2004 Non-Employee Director Option Plan. The awards vest on February 15, 2016, and had a fair value of $45.69 per share. The fair value was determined by using the closing share price of our common stock on the date the shares were issued. During the nine months ended September 30, 2013, 9,442 shares of common stock were issued in connection with the exercise of stock options and the net proceeds received were $0.2 million. The vesting requirements for 36,666 restricted shares granted to our employees were satisfied during the nine months ended September 30, 2013.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for compensation-related costs for equity-based compensation, which may include disclosure of policies, compensation plan details, allocation of equity compensation, incentive distributions, equity-based arrangements to obtain goods and services, deferred compensation arrangements, employee stock ownership plan details and employee stock purchase plan details.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 505
-SubTopic 50
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6406099&loc=d3e25284-112666

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-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 718
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-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6418621&loc=d3e17540-113929

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-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Staff Accounting Bulletin (SAB)
-Number Topic 14

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 123R
-Paragraph 64, 65, A240
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Statement of Position (SOP)
-Number 93-6
-Paragraph 53
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

+ Details

Segment Reporting

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Segment Reporting, Measurement Disclosures [Abstract]

Segment Reporting

Our consolidated operations can be segmented into Real Property Operations and Home Sales and Rentals. Transactions between our segments are eliminated in consolidation. Transient RV revenue is included in Real Property Operations’ revenues and is expected to approximate $18.0 million annually. This transient revenue is estimated to be recognized 39% in the first quarter, 14% in the second, 29% in the third quarter and 18% in the fourth quarter of each fiscal year.

A presentation of segment financial information is summarized as follows (amounts in thousands):



	Three Months Ended September 30, 2013									Three Months Ended September 30, 2012
	Real Property Operations			Home Sales and Home Rentals			Consolidated			Real Property Operations			Home Sales and Home Rentals			Consolidated
Revenues	$	80,158		$	22,590		$	102,748		$	63,015		$	17,173		$	80,188
Operating expenses/Cost of sales	29,981			15,665			45,646			23,000			12,909			35,909
Net operating income/Gross profit	50,177			6,925			57,102			40,015			4,264			44,279
Adjustments to arrive at net income (loss):
Other revenues	3,521			932			4,453			2,942			(112		)	2,830
General and administrative	(5,927		)	(2,227		)	(8,154		)	(5,165		)	(1,905		)	(7,070		)
Acquisition related costs	(619		)	—			(619		)	(847		)	—			(847		)
Depreciation and amortization	(19,551		)	(9,239		)	(28,790		)	(14,760		)	(7,332		)	(22,092		)
Interest expense	(18,628		)	(4		)	(18,632		)	(17,885		)	(6		)	(17,891		)
Distributions from affiliate	700			—			700			600			—			600
Provision for state income tax	(90		)	—			(90		)	(84		)	—			(84		)
Net income (loss)	9,583			(3,613		)	5,970			4,816			(5,091		)	(275		)
Less: Preferred return to A-1 preferred OP units	690			—			690			586			—			586
Less: Preferred return to A-3 preferred OP units	45			—			45			—			—			—
Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests	272			(300		)	(28		)	328			(539		)	(211		)
Net income (loss) attributable to Sun Communities, Inc.	8,576			(3,313		)	5,263			3,902			(4,552		)	(650		)
Less: 7.125% Series A Cumulative Preferred Stock Distributions	1,514			—			1,514			—			—			—
Net income (loss) attributable to Sun Communities, Inc. common stockholders	$	7,062		$	(3,313	)	$	3,749		$	3,902		$	(4,552	)	$	(650	)

12. Segment Reporting, continued



	Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013									Nine Months Ended September 30, 2012
	Real Property Operations			Home Sales and Home Rentals			Consolidated			Real Property Operations			Home Sales and Home Rentals			Consolidated
Revenues	$	234,969		$	63,983		$	298,952		$	188,818		$	51,027		$	239,845
Operating expenses/Cost of sales	83,739			43,612			127,351			66,002			37,625			103,627
Net operating income/Gross profit	151,230			20,371			171,601			122,816			13,402			136,218
Adjustments to arrive at net income (loss):
Other revenues	9,936			1,376			11,312			8,437			(124		)	8,313
General and administrative	(19,086		)	(7,473		)	(26,559		)	(15,405		)	(5,985		)	(21,390		)
Acquisition related costs	(2,769		)	—			(2,769		)	(1,434		)	—			(1,434		)
Depreciation and amortization	(53,757		)	(26,359		)	(80,116		)	(41,798		)	(21,229		)	(63,027		)
Interest expense	(56,985		)	(333		)	(57,318		)	(53,051		)	(92		)	(53,143		)
Distributions from affiliate	1,550			—			1,550			3,250			—			3,250
Provision for state income tax	(186		)	—			(186		)	(190		)	—			(190		)
Net income (loss)	29,933			(12,418		)	17,515			22,625			(14,028		)	8,597
Less: Preferred return to A-1 preferred OP units	1,909			—			1,909			1,744			—			1,744
Less: Preferred return to A-3 preferred OP units	121			—			121			—			—			—
Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests	1,503			(1,088		)	415			1,985			(1,522		)	463
Net income (loss) attributable to Sun Communities, Inc.	26,400			(11,330		)	15,070			18,896			(12,506		)	6,390
Less: 7.125% Series A Cumulative Preferred Stock Distributions	4,542			—			4,542			—			—			—
Net income (loss) attributable to Sun Communities, Inc. common stockholders	$	21,858		$	(11,330	)	$	10,528		$	18,896		$	(12,506	)	$	6,390



	September 30, 2013						December 31, 2012
	Real Property Operations		Home Sales and Home Rentals		Consolidated		Real Property Operations		Home Sales and Home Rentals		Consolidated
Identifiable assets:
Investment property, net	$	1,416,314	$	279,003	$	1,695,317	$	1,296,753	$	221,383	$	1,518,136
Cash and cash equivalents	4,452		503		4,955		29,071		437		29,508
Inventory of manufactured homes	—		4,005		4,005		—		7,527		7,527
Notes and other receivables	160,964		9,620		170,584		131,000		8,850		139,850
Other assets	58,043		3,787		61,830		54,959		4,648		59,607
Total assets	$	1,639,773	$	296,918	$	1,936,691	$	1,511,783	$	242,845	$	1,754,628

- Definition

The entire disclosure for reporting segments including data and tables. Reportable segments include those that meet any of the following quantitative thresholds a) it's reported revenue, including sales to external customers and intersegment sales or transfers is 10 percent or more of the combined revenue, internal and external, of all operating segments b) the absolute amount of its reported profit or loss is 10 percent or more of the greater, in absolute amount of 1) the combined reported profit of all operating segments that did not report a loss or 2) the combined reported loss of all operating segments that did report a loss c) its assets are 10 percent or more of the combined assets of all operating segments.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 280
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 34
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6534315&loc=d3e8981-108599

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Reference 15: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 131
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

+ Details

Derivative Instruments And Hedging Activities

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]

Derivative Instruments And Hedging Activities

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities

Our objective in using interest rate derivatives is to manage exposure to interest rate movements thereby minimizing the effect of interest rate changes and the effect it could have on future cash flows. Interest rate swaps and caps are used to accomplish this objective. We require hedging derivative instruments to be highly effective in reducing the risk exposure that they are designated to hedge. We formally designate any instrument that meets these hedging criteria as a hedge at the inception of the derivative contract.

As of September 30, 2013, we had three derivative contracts consisting of one interest rate swap agreement with a notional amount of $20.0 million and two interest rate cap agreements with a total notional amount of $162.4 million. We generally employ derivative instruments that effectively convert a portion of our variable rate debt to fixed rate debt and to cap the maximum interest rate on certain variable rate borrowings. We do not enter into derivative instruments for speculative purposes.

The following table provides the terms of our interest rate derivative contracts that were in effect as of September 30, 2013:

Type

Purpose

Effective Date

Maturity Date

Notional

(in millions)

Based on

Variable Rate

Fixed Rate

Spread

Effective Fixed Rate

Swap

Floating to Fixed Rate

1/1/2009

1/1/2014

20.0

3 Month LIBOR

0.2731%

2.1450%

1.8700%

4.0150%

Cap

Cap Floating Rate

4/1/2012

4/1/2015

152.4

3 Month LIBOR

0.2740%

11.2650%

—%

N/A

Cap

Cap Floating Rate

10/3/2011

10/3/2016

10.0

3 Month LIBOR

0.2740%

11.0200%

—%

N/A

Generally, our financial derivative instruments are designated and qualify as cash flow hedges and the effective portion of the gain or loss on such hedges are reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in our consolidated balance sheets. To the extent that the hedging relationship is not effective or does not qualify as a cash flow hedge, the ineffective portion is recorded in interest expense. Hedges that receive designated hedge accounting treatment are evaluated for effectiveness at the time that they are designated, as well as through the hedging period.

In accordance with ASC Topic 815, Derivatives and Hedging, we have recorded the fair value of our derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges on the balance sheet. See Note 16 for information on the determination of fair value for the derivative instruments. The following table summarizes the fair value of derivative instruments included in our consolidated balance sheets as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 (in thousands):



	Asset Derivatives					Liability Derivatives
	Balance Sheet Location	Fair Value				Balance Sheet Location	Fair Value
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments		September 30, 2013		December 31, 2012			September 30, 2013		December 31, 2012
Interest rate swaps and cap agreement	Other assets	$	—	$	—	Other liabilities	$	193	$	459
Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments		$	—	$	—		$	193	$	459

These valuation adjustments will only be realized under certain situations. For example, if we terminate the swaps prior to maturity or if the derivatives fail to qualify for hedge accounting, we would need to amortize amounts currently included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into interest expense over the terms of the derivative contracts. We do not intend to terminate the swaps prior to maturity and, therefore, the net of valuation adjustments through the various maturity dates will approximate zero, unless the derivatives fail to qualify for hedge accounting.

15. Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, continued

Our hedges were highly effective and had minimal effect on income. The following tables summarize the impact of derivative instruments for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 as recorded in the consolidated statements of operations (in thousands):



Derivatives in cash flow hedging	Amount of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in OCI (Effective Portion)				Location of Gain or (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income (Effective Portion)	Amount of Gain or (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income (Effective Portion)				Location of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing)	Amount of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing)
	Three Months Ended September 30,					Three Months Ended September 30,					Three Months Ended September 30,
	2013		2012			2013		2012			2013		2012
Interest rate swaps and cap agreement	$	89	$	44	Interest expense	$	—	$	—	Interest expense	$	—	$	—
Total	$	89	$	44	Total	$	—	$	—	Total	$	—	$	—



Derivatives in cash flow hedging	Amount of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in OCI (Effective Portion)				Location of Gain or (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income (Effective Portion)	Amount of Gain or (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income (Effective Portion)				Location of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing)	Amount of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing)
	Nine Months Ended September 30,					Nine Months Ended September 30,					Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2013		2012			2013		2012			2013		2012
Interest rate swaps and cap agreement	$	266	$	643	Interest expense	$	—	$	—	Interest expense	$	—	$	3
Total	$	266	$	643	Total	$	—	$	—	Total	$	—	$	3

Certain of our derivative instruments contain provisions that require us to provide ongoing collateralization on derivative instruments in a liability position. As of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, we had collateral deposits recorded in other assets of approximately $0.7 million and $1.2 million, respectively.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for the entity's entire derivative instruments and hedging activities. Describes an entity's risk management strategies, derivatives in hedging activities and non-hedging derivative instruments, the assets, obligations, liabilities, revenues and expenses arising therefrom, and the amounts of and methodologies and assumptions used in determining the amounts of such items.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 815
-SubTopic 30
-Section 45
-Paragraph 1
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6441202&loc=d3e80720-113993

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-Publisher FASB
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Reference 21: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 133
-Paragraph 45
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 22: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 133
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-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

+ Details

Income Taxes	9 Months Ended
Income Taxes	Sep. 30, 2013
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Income Taxes We have elected to be taxed as a real estate investment trust (“REIT”) as defined under Section 856(c) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (“Code”), as amended. In order for us to qualify as a REIT, at least ninety-five percent (95%) of our gross income in any year must be derived from qualifying sources. In addition, a REIT must distribute at least ninety percent (90%) of its REIT ordinary taxable income to its stockholders. Qualification as a REIT involves the satisfaction of numerous requirements (some on an annual and quarterly basis) established under highly technical and complex Code provisions for which there are only limited judicial or administrative interpretations, and involves the determination of various factual matters and circumstances not entirely within our control. In addition, frequent changes occur in the area of REIT taxation which requires us to continually monitor our tax status. We analyzed the various REIT tests and confirmed that we continued to qualify as a REIT for the quarter ended September 30, 2013. As a REIT, we generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income taxes at the corporate level on the ordinary taxable income we distribute to our stockholders as dividends. If we fail to qualify as a REIT in any taxable year, our taxable income could be subject to U.S. federal income tax at regular corporate rates (including any applicable alternative minimum tax). Even if we qualify as a REIT, we may be subject to certain state and local income taxes and to U.S. federal income and excise taxes on our undistributed income. SHS, our taxable REIT subsidiary, is subject to U.S. federal income taxes. Our deferred tax assets and liabilities reflect the impact of temporary differences between the amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the bases of such assets and liabilities as measured by tax laws. Deferred tax assets are reduced, if necessary, by a valuation allowance to the amount where realization is more likely than not assured after considering all available evidence. Our temporary differences primarily relate to net operating loss carryforwards and depreciation. A federal deferred tax asset of $1.0 million is included in other assets in our consolidated balance sheets as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012. We had no unrecognized tax benefits as of September 30, 2013 and 2012. We expect no significant increases or decreases in unrecognized tax benefits due to changes in tax positions within one year of September 30, 2013. We classify certain state taxes as income taxes for financial reporting purposes. We record Texas Margin Tax as income tax in our financial statements, and we recorded a provision for state income taxes of approximately $0.1 million and $0.2 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for income taxes. Disclosures may include net deferred tax liability or asset recognized in an enterprise's statement of financial position, net change during the year in the total valuation allowance, approximate tax effect of each type of temporary difference and carryforward that gives rise to a significant portion of deferred tax liabilities and deferred tax assets, utilization of a tax carryback, and tax uncertainties information.

+ References

+ Details

Earnings Per Share

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Earnings Per Share [Abstract]

Earnings Per Share

We have outstanding stock options and unvested restricted shares, and our Operating Partnership has common OP units, convertible A-1 preferred OP units, convertible A-3 preferred OP units and Aspen preferred OP Units, which if converted or exercised, may impact dilution.

Computations of basic and diluted earnings per share from continuing operations were as follows (in thousands, except per share data):



	Three Months Ended September 30,					Nine Months Ended September 30,
Numerator	2013		2012			2013		2012
Basic earnings: net income attributable to common stockholders	$	3,749	$	(650	)	$	10,528	$	6,390
Add: amounts attributable to common noncontrolling interests	—		—			—		—
Diluted earnings: net income available to common stockholders and unitholders	$	3,749	$	(650	)	$	10,528	$	6,390
Denominator
Weighted average common shares outstanding	35,499		26,938			33,802		26,145
Weighted average unvested restricted stock outstanding	629		—			461		282
Basic weighted average common shares and unvested restricted stock outstanding	36,128		26,938			34,263		26,427
Add: dilutive securities	15		—			16		17
Diluted weighted average common shares and securities	36,143		26,938			34,279		26,444
Earnings per share available to common stockholders:
Basic	$	0.10	$	(0.02	)	$	0.31	$	0.24
Diluted	$	0.10	$	(0.02	)	$	0.31	$	0.24

We excluded certain securities from the computation of diluted earnings per share because the inclusion of these securities would have been anti-dilutive for the periods presented. The following table presents the number of outstanding potentially dilutive securities that were excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 (amounts in thousands):



	Three Months Ended September 30,		Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2013	2012	2013	2012
Stock options	—	57	—	—
Unvested restricted stock	—	289	—	—
Common OP units	2,069	2,070	2,069	2,071
Series A-1 preferred OP units	1,111	1,111	1,111	1,111
Series A-3 preferred OP units	75	—	64	—
Aspen preferred OP units	526	526	526	526
Total securities	3,781	4,053	3,770	3,708

The figures above represent the total number of potentially dilutive securities, and do not necessarily reflect the incremental impact to the number of diluted weighted average shares outstanding that would be computed if the impact to us had been dilutive to the calculation of earnings per share available to common stockholders.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]

Fair Value Of Financial Instruments

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

Our financial instruments consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents, accounts and notes receivable, accounts payable, derivative instruments, and debt.

ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures, establishes a fair value hierarchy that requires the use of observable market data, when available, and prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value in the following categories:

Level 1—Quoted unadjusted prices for identical instruments in active markets.

Level 2—Quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active and model-derived valuations in which all observable inputs and significant value drivers are observable in active markets.

Level 3—Model derived valuations in which one or more significant inputs or significant value drivers are unobservable, including assumptions developed by us.

We utilize fair value measurements to record fair value adjustments to certain assets and liabilities and to determine fair value disclosures. The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of each class of financial instruments for which it is practicable to estimate that value.

Derivative Instruments

The derivative instruments held by us are interest rate swaps and cap agreements for which quoted market prices are indirectly available. For those derivatives, we use model-derived valuations in which all observable inputs and significant value drivers are observable in active markets provided by brokers or dealers to determine the fair values of derivative instruments on a recurring basis.

Installment Notes on Manufactured Homes

The net carrying value of the installment notes on manufactured homes approximates the fair value as the interest rates in the portfolio are comparable to current prevailing market rates.

Long Term Debt and Lines of Credit

The fair value of long term debt (excluding the secured borrowing) is based on the estimates of management and on rates currently quoted and rates currently prevailing for comparable loans and instruments of comparable maturities.

Collateralized Receivables and Secured Borrowing

The fair value of these financial instruments offset each other as our collateralized receivables represent a transfer of financial assets and the cash proceeds received from these transactions have been classified as a secured borrowing in the consolidated balance sheets. The net carrying value of the collateralized receivables approximates the fair value as the interest rates in the portfolio are comparable to current prevailing market rates.

Other Financial Instruments

The carrying values of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, and accounts payable approximate their fair market values due to the short-term nature of these instruments.

The table below sets forth our financial assets and liabilities that required disclosure of their fair values on a recurring basis and presents the carrying values and fair values as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 that were measured using the valuation techniques described above. The table excludes other financial instruments such as cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, and accounts payable because the carrying values associated with these instruments approximate fair value since their maturities are less than one year.

16. Fair Value of Financial Instruments, continued



	September 30, 2013				December 31, 2012
Financial assets	Carrying Value		Fair Value		Carrying Value		Fair Value
Installment notes on manufactured homes, net	$	24,605	$	24,605	$	21,898	$	21,898
Collateralized receivables, net	$	106,566	$	106,566	$	93,834	$	93,834
Financial liabilities
Derivative instruments	$	193	$	193	$	459	$	459
Long term debt (excluding secured borrowing)	$	1,246,205	$	1,263,936	$	1,329,311	$	1,355,331
Secured borrowing	$	107,243	$	107,243	$	94,409	$	94,409
Lines of credit	$	54,765	$	54,765	$	29,781	$	29,781

The derivative instruments are the only financial liabilities that were required to be carried at fair value in the consolidated balance sheets for the periods indicated, and we have no financial assets that are required to be carried at fair value.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for the fair value of financial instruments (as defined), including financial assets and financial liabilities (collectively, as defined), and the measurements of those instruments as well as disclosures related to the fair value of non-financial assets and liabilities. Such disclosures about the financial instruments, assets, and liabilities would include: (1) the fair value of the required items together with their carrying amounts (as appropriate); (2) for items for which it is not practicable to estimate fair value, disclosure would include: (a) information pertinent to estimating fair value (including, carrying amount, effective interest rate, and maturity, and (b) the reasons why it is not practicable to estimate fair value; (3) significant concentrations of credit risk including: (a) information about the activity, region, or economic characteristics identifying a concentration, (b) the maximum amount of loss the entity is exposed to based on the gross fair value of the related item, (c) policy for requiring collateral or other security and information as to accessing such collateral or security, and (d) the nature and brief description of such collateral or security; (4) quantitative information about market risks and how such risks are managed; (5) for items measured on both a recurring and nonrecurring basis information regarding the inputs used to develop the fair value measurement; and (6) for items presented in the financial statement for which fair value measurement is elected: (a) information necessary to understand the reasons for the election, (b) discussion of the effect of fair value changes on earnings, (c) a description of [similar groups] items for which the election is made and the relation thereof to the balance sheet, the aggregate carrying value of items included in the balance sheet that are not eligible for the election; (7) all other required (as defined) and desired information.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
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Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
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Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
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-Number 107
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Reference 11: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
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-Number 107
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Reference 12: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 157
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Reference 13: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 107
-Paragraph 3, 10, 14, 15
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

+ Details

Recent Accounting Pronouncements	9 Months Ended
Recent Accounting Pronouncements	Sep. 30, 2013
New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Abstract]
Recent Accounting Pronouncements	Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements In July 2013, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2013-11, “Income Taxes (Topic 740): Presentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit When a Net Operating Loss Carryforward, a Similar Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit Carryforward Exists” (“ASU 2013-11”). ASU 2013-11 requires an entity to present its unrecognized tax benefits net of its deferred tax assets when settlement in this manner is available under the tax law, which would be based on facts and circumstances as of the balance sheet reporting date and would not consider future events. Gross presentation in the notes to the financial statements will still be required. ASU 2013-11 will apply on a prospective basis to all unrecognized tax benefits that exist at the effective date, with the option to apply it retrospectively. The guidance is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2013. While the adoption of this pronouncement will not have an impact on our results of operations or cash flows, we are currently evaluating the impact of presenting unrecognized tax benefits net of our deferred tax assets where applicable on our consolidated balance sheet. In February 2013, the FASB issued ASU 2013-02, “Comprehensive Income: Reporting of Amounts Reclassified Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income” (“ASU 2013-02”). ASU 2013-02 requires an entity to provide information about the amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by component. In addition, an entity is required to present, either on the face of the statement where net income is presented or in the notes, significant amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by the respective line items of net income but only if the amount reclassified is required under GAAP to be reclassified to net income in its entirety in the same reporting period. For other amounts that are not required under GAAP to be reclassified in their entirety to net income, an entity is required to cross-reference to other disclosures required under GAAP that provide additional detail about those amounts. The provisions of ASU 2013-02 are effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2012. The adoption of this pronouncement did not have any impact on our consolidated financial statements. In January 2013, the FASB issued ASU 2013-01, “Clarifying the Scope of Disclosures about Offsetting Assets and Liabilities” ("ASU 2013-01") which amends ASC Topic 210, Balance Sheet. The updated guidance in ASC Topic 210 clarifies that ordinary trade receivables are not in the scope of ASU No. 2011-11, Balance Sheet (Topic 210): Disclosures about Offsetting Assets and Liabilities. Specifically, ASU 2011-11 applies only to derivatives, repurchase agreements and reverse purchase agreements, and securities borrowing and securities lending transactions that are either offset in accordance with specific criteria contained in the Codification or subject to a master netting arrangement or similar agreement. An entity is required to apply the amendments for fiscal years beginning on or after January 1, 2013, and interim periods within those annual periods. An entity should provide the required disclosures retrospectively for all comparative periods presented. The effective date is the same as the effective date of ASU 2011-11, which was January 1, 2013. Early adoption was not permitted. The adoption of this pronouncement did not have any impact on our results of operations or financial condition.

- Definition

Tabular disclosure of changes in accounting principles, including adoption of new accounting pronouncements, that describes the new methods, amount and effects on financial statement line items.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 154
-Paragraph 2, 17, 18
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Reference 13: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 01
-Paragraph b
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-Article 10

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-Publisher AICPA
-Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB)
-Number 28
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-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

+ Details

Commitments And Contingencies	9 Months Ended
Commitments And Contingencies	Sep. 30, 2013
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments And Contingencies	Commitments and Contingencies On September 16, 2013, we settled all of the claims arising out of the litigation that we filed on December 26, 2012 in Oakland County (Michigan) Circuit Court against MHC Operating Limited Partnership (“MHC”) (an affiliate of Equity Lifestyle Properties, Inc.), the contributors of the Morgan RV Properties (the “Contributors”) and certain of their affiliates with respect to MHC’s assertion of claims against the Morgan RV Properties. Under the settlement agreement, MHC released all of its claims against the Morgan RV Properties, we released all of our rights with respect to one other RV community owned by an affiliate of the Contributors and MHC reimbursed us for certain costs and expenses and paid us certain additional consideration. The Contributors and their affiliates paid us $250,000 by increasing the principal balance of our existing $5.0 million note receivable in full satisfaction of their obligation under the specific indemnity related to MHC’s claims to the Morgan RV Properties. No party admitted any liability under the settlement agreement. On June 4, 2010 we settled all of the claims arising out of the litigation filed in 2004 by TJ Holdings, LLC in the Superior Court of Guilford County, North Carolina and the associated arbitration proceeding commenced by TJ Holdings in Southfield, Michigan. Under the terms of the settlement agreement, in which neither party admitted any liability whatsoever, we paid TJ Holdings $360,000. In addition, pursuant to this settlement, TJ Holdings’ percentage ownership interest in Sun/Forest, LLC will be increased on a one time basis, in the event of a sale or refinance of all of the SunChamp Properties, to between 9.03% and 28.99% depending on our average closing stock price as reported by the NYSE during the 30 days preceding the sale or refinance of all the SunChamp Properties. Once this percentage ownership interest has been adjusted, there will be no further adjustments from subsequent sales or refinances of the SunChamp Properties. The likelihood of a sale or refinancing of all of the SunChamp properties is not probable as these properties continue to see growth potential nor do we have a need to refinance all of the properties, so we do not expect it to have a material adverse impact on our results of operations or financial condition. We are involved in various other legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business. All such proceedings, taken together, are not expected to have a material adverse impact on our results of operations or financial condition.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for commitments and contingencies.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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-Number 5
-Paragraph 9, 10, 11, 12
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

+ Details

Real Estate Acquisitions (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Business Combinations [Abstract]

Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block]



	Three Months Ended September 30,				Nine Months Ended September 30,
	(unaudited)
	2013		2012		2013		2012
Total revenues	$	103,838	$	90,515	$	314,029	$	264,055
Net income attributable to Sun Communities, Inc. shareholders	$	4,137	$	4,294	$	14,427	$	14,294
Net income per share attributable to Sun Communities, Inc. shareholders - basic	$	0.11	$	0.16	$	0.42	$	0.54
Net income per share attributable to Sun Communities, Inc. shareholders - diluted	$	0.11	$	0.16	$	0.42	$	0.54

Schedule of Revenue and Net Income from acquistions [Table Text Block]



	Three Months Ended September 30, 2013		Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013
	(unaudited)
Revenue	$	7,598	$	11,734
Net income	$	2,021	$	2,866

Schedule of Purchase Price Allocation



At Acquisition Date	Morgan RV Properties			Jellystone			Big Timber Lake			Total
Investment in property	$	95,145		$	8,264		$	21,548		$	124,957
Inventory of manufactured homes	4,253			1,490			350			6,093
Notes and other receivables	10,000			—			—			10,000
In-place leases and other intangible assets	2,664			390			580			3,634
Other assets	157			7			48			212
Below market leases	—			—			(3,490		)	(3,490		)
Other liabilities	(3,697		)	(930		)	(1,157		)	(5,784		)
Total identifiable assets and liabilities assumed	$	108,522		$	9,221		$	17,879		$	135,622

Consideration
Cash	$	55,618		$	9,221		$	17,879		$	82,718
Series A-3 preferred OP units	3,463			—			—			3,463
Extinguishment of note receivable	49,441			—			—			49,441
Fair value of total consideration transferred	$	108,522		$	9,221		$	17,879		$	135,622

- Definition

Tabular disclosure of pro forma results of operations for a material business acquisition or series of individually immaterial business acquisitions that are material in the aggregate.

+ References + Details

Investment Property (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Real Estate Investment Property, Net [Abstract]

Real estate, investment property [Table Text Block]

The following table sets forth certain information regarding investment property (in thousands):



	September 30, 2013			December 31, 2012
Land	$	191,589		$	178,993
Land improvements and buildings	1,752,996			1,608,825
Rental homes and improvements	375,296			305,838
Furniture, fixtures, and equipment	60,139			54,354
Land held for future development	29,521			29,295
Investment property	2,409,541			2,177,305
Accumulated depreciation	(714,224		)	(659,169		)
Investment property, net	$	1,695,317		$	1,518,136

Transfers Of Financial Assets (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Transfers of Financial Assets [Abstract]

Repurchase price percentage [Table Text Block]

In general, the repurchase price is determined as follows:



Number of Payments	Repurchase %
Less than or equal to 15	100	%
Greater than 15 but less than 64	90	%
Equal to or greater than 64 but less than 120	65	%
120 or more	50	%

Schedule of collateralized loans [Table Text Block]

The change in the aggregate gross principal balance of the collateralized receivables is as follows (in thousands):



	Nine Months Ended
	September 30, 2013
Beginning balance	$	94,409
Financed sales of manufactured homes	24,368
Principal payments and payoffs from our customers	(4,834		)
Principal reduction from repurchased homes	(6,700		)
Total activity	12,834
Ending balance	$	107,243

Notes And Other Receivables (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Long-term Notes and Loans, by Type, Current and Noncurrent [Abstract]

Schedule of notes and other receivables [Table Text Block]

The following table sets forth certain information regarding notes and other receivables (in thousands):



	September 30, 2013		December 31, 2012
Installment notes receivable on manufactured homes, net	$	24,605	$	21,898
Collateralized receivables, net (see Note 4)	106,566		93,834
Other receivables, net	39,413		24,118
Total notes and other receivables, net	$	170,584	$	139,850

Schedule of Installment Notes Receivable [Table Text Block]

The change in the aggregate gross principal balance of the installment notes is as follows (in thousands):



	Nine Months Ended
	September 30, 2013
Beginning balance	$	22,019
Financed sales of manufactured homes	6,354
Principal payments and payoffs from our customers	(2,962		)
Principal reduction from repossessed homes	(675		)
Total activity	2,717
Ending balance	$	24,736

Allowance for collateralized and installment notes receivable [Table Text Block]

The following table sets forth the allowance for collateralized and installment notes receivable as of September 30, 2013 (in thousands).



	Nine Months Ended
	September 30, 2013
Beginning balance	$	(697	)
Lower of cost or market write-downs	322
Increase to reserve balance	(433		)
Total activity	(111		)
Ending balance	$	(808	)

Investment In Affiliates (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract]

Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block]

The following table sets forth certain summarized unaudited financial information for Origen (amounts in thousands):



	Three Months Ended September 30,						Nine Months Ended September 30,
	(unaudited)
	2013			2012			2013			2012
Revenues	$	12,079		$	14,228		$	37,959		$	50,608
Expenses	(13,123		)	(16,619		)	(40,683		)	(52,427		)
Net loss	$	(1,044	)	$	(2,391	)	$	(2,724	)	$	(1,819	)

Consolidated Variable Interest Entities Consolidated Variable Interest Entities (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

DisclosureofVariableInterestEntities [Abstract]

Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table Text Block]

The following table summarizes the assets and liabilities included in our consolidated balance sheet after appropriate eliminations (in thousands):



	September 30, 2013			December 31, 2012
ASSETS
Investment property, net	$	56,326		$	56,326
Other assets	3,882			4,598
Total Assets	$	60,208		$	60,924

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Debt	$	45,386		$	45,900
Other liabilities	5,012			1,773
Noncontrolling interests	(920		)	(508		)
Total Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity	$	49,478		$	47,165

- Definition

Tabular disclosure of the significant judgments and assumptions made in determining whether a variable interest (as defined) held by the entity requires the variable interest entity (VIE) (as defined) to be consolidated and (or) disclose information about its involvement with the VIE, individually or in aggregate (as applicable); the nature of restrictions, if any, on the consolidated VIE's assets and on the settlement of its liabilities reported by an entity in its statement of financial position, including the carrying amounts of such assets and liabilities; the nature of, and changes in, the risks associated with involvement in the VIE; how involvement with the VIE affects the entity's financial position, financial performance, and cash flows; the lack of recourse if creditors (or beneficial interest holders) of the consolidated VIE have no recourse to the general credit of the primary beneficiary (if applicable); the terms of arrangements, giving consideration to both explicit arrangements and implicit variable interests, if any, that could require the entity to provide financial support to the VIE, including events or circumstances that could expose the entity to a loss; the methodology used by the entity for determining whether or not it is the primary beneficiary of the variable interest entity; the significant factors considered and judgments made in determining that the power to direct the activities of a VIE that most significantly impact the VIE's economic performance are shared (as defined); the carrying amounts and classification of assets and liabilities of the VIE included in the statement of financial position; the entity's maximum exposure to loss, if any, as a result of its involvement with the VIE, including how the maximum exposure is determined and significant sources of the entity's exposure to the VIE; a comparison of the carrying amounts of the assets and liabilities and the entity's maximum exposure to loss; information about any liquidity arrangements, guarantees, and (or) other commitments by third parties that may affect the fair value or risk of the entity's variable interest in the VIE; whether or not the entity has provided financial support or other support (explicitly or implicitly) to the VIE that it was not previously contractually required to provide or whether the entity intends to provide that support, including the type and amount of the support and the primary reasons for providing the support; and supplemental information the entity determines necessary to provide.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 810
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 6
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=7880789&loc=d3e5747-111685

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 810
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 9
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=7880789&loc=SL6228884-111685

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 810
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 4
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=7880789&loc=d3e5728-111685

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Glossary Variable Interest Entity
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6528138

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 810
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 3
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=7880789&loc=d3e5710-111685

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 810
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 5A
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=7880789&loc=SL6759159-111685

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 140
-Paragraph 35
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name FASB Interpretation (FIN)
-Number 46R
-Paragraph 2, 14, 15, 16, 23, 24, 25, 26
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 167
-Paragraph 24
-Appendix D

Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name FASB Staff Position (FSP)
-Number FAS140-4/FIN46(R)-8
-Paragraph C4
-Subparagraph d
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 11: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 167
-Paragraph 22B
-Appendix D

Reference 12: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 167
-Paragraph 23A
-Appendix D

Reference 13: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 167
-Paragraph 22E
-Appendix D

Reference 14: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name FASB Interpretation (FIN)
-Number 46R
-Paragraph 4
-Subparagraph g
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

+ Details

Debt And Lines Of Credit (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Debt Disclosure [Abstract]

Schedule of debt and lines of credit [Table Text Block]

The following table sets forth certain information regarding debt (in thousands):



	Principal Outstanding				Weighted Average Years to Maturity		Weighted Average Interest Rates
	September 30, 2013		December 31, 2012		September 30, 2013	December 31, 2012	September 30, 2013		December 31, 2012
Collateralized term loans - CMBS	$	682,368	$	725,951	4.1	4.5	5.4	%	5.2	%
Collateralized term loans - FNMA	366,917		369,810		9.6	10.3	3.6	%	3.8	%
Aspen and Series B-3 preferred OP Units	47,022		47,322		7.9	8.4	6.9	%	6.9	%
Secured borrowing (see Note 4)	107,243		94,409		13.4	12.8	10.7	%	11.0	%
Mortgage notes, other	149,898		186,228		6.0	6.2	4.6	%	4.3	%
Total debt	$	1,353,448	$	1,423,720	6.5	6.8	5.3	%	5.2	%

Segment Reporting (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]

Reconciliation of Assets from Segment to Consolidated [Table Text Block]



	September 30, 2013						December 31, 2012
	Real Property Operations		Home Sales and Home Rentals		Consolidated		Real Property Operations		Home Sales and Home Rentals		Consolidated
Identifiable assets:
Investment property, net	$	1,416,314	$	279,003	$	1,695,317	$	1,296,753	$	221,383	$	1,518,136
Cash and cash equivalents	4,452		503		4,955		29,071		437		29,508
Inventory of manufactured homes	—		4,005		4,005		—		7,527		7,527
Notes and other receivables	160,964		9,620		170,584		131,000		8,850		139,850
Other assets	58,043		3,787		61,830		54,959		4,648		59,607
Total assets	$	1,639,773	$	296,918	$	1,936,691	$	1,511,783	$	242,845	$	1,754,628

Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block]

A presentation of segment financial information is summarized as follows (amounts in thousands):



	Three Months Ended September 30, 2013									Three Months Ended September 30, 2012
	Real Property Operations			Home Sales and Home Rentals			Consolidated			Real Property Operations			Home Sales and Home Rentals			Consolidated
Revenues	$	80,158		$	22,590		$	102,748		$	63,015		$	17,173		$	80,188
Operating expenses/Cost of sales	29,981			15,665			45,646			23,000			12,909			35,909
Net operating income/Gross profit	50,177			6,925			57,102			40,015			4,264			44,279
Adjustments to arrive at net income (loss):
Other revenues	3,521			932			4,453			2,942			(112		)	2,830
General and administrative	(5,927		)	(2,227		)	(8,154		)	(5,165		)	(1,905		)	(7,070		)
Acquisition related costs	(619		)	—			(619		)	(847		)	—			(847		)
Depreciation and amortization	(19,551		)	(9,239		)	(28,790		)	(14,760		)	(7,332		)	(22,092		)
Interest expense	(18,628		)	(4		)	(18,632		)	(17,885		)	(6		)	(17,891		)
Distributions from affiliate	700			—			700			600			—			600
Provision for state income tax	(90		)	—			(90		)	(84		)	—			(84		)
Net income (loss)	9,583			(3,613		)	5,970			4,816			(5,091		)	(275		)
Less: Preferred return to A-1 preferred OP units	690			—			690			586			—			586
Less: Preferred return to A-3 preferred OP units	45			—			45			—			—			—
Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests	272			(300		)	(28		)	328			(539		)	(211		)
Net income (loss) attributable to Sun Communities, Inc.	8,576			(3,313		)	5,263			3,902			(4,552		)	(650		)
Less: 7.125% Series A Cumulative Preferred Stock Distributions	1,514			—			1,514			—			—			—
Net income (loss) attributable to Sun Communities, Inc. common stockholders	$	7,062		$	(3,313	)	$	3,749		$	3,902		$	(4,552	)	$	(650	)

12. Segment Reporting, continued



	Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013									Nine Months Ended September 30, 2012
	Real Property Operations			Home Sales and Home Rentals			Consolidated			Real Property Operations			Home Sales and Home Rentals			Consolidated
Revenues	$	234,969		$	63,983		$	298,952		$	188,818		$	51,027		$	239,845
Operating expenses/Cost of sales	83,739			43,612			127,351			66,002			37,625			103,627
Net operating income/Gross profit	151,230			20,371			171,601			122,816			13,402			136,218
Adjustments to arrive at net income (loss):
Other revenues	9,936			1,376			11,312			8,437			(124		)	8,313
General and administrative	(19,086		)	(7,473		)	(26,559		)	(15,405		)	(5,985		)	(21,390		)
Acquisition related costs	(2,769		)	—			(2,769		)	(1,434		)	—			(1,434		)
Depreciation and amortization	(53,757		)	(26,359		)	(80,116		)	(41,798		)	(21,229		)	(63,027		)
Interest expense	(56,985		)	(333		)	(57,318		)	(53,051		)	(92		)	(53,143		)
Distributions from affiliate	1,550			—			1,550			3,250			—			3,250
Provision for state income tax	(186		)	—			(186		)	(190		)	—			(190		)
Net income (loss)	29,933			(12,418		)	17,515			22,625			(14,028		)	8,597
Less: Preferred return to A-1 preferred OP units	1,909			—			1,909			1,744			—			1,744
Less: Preferred return to A-3 preferred OP units	121			—			121			—			—			—
Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests	1,503			(1,088		)	415			1,985			(1,522		)	463
Net income (loss) attributable to Sun Communities, Inc.	26,400			(11,330		)	15,070			18,896			(12,506		)	6,390
Less: 7.125% Series A Cumulative Preferred Stock Distributions	4,542			—			4,542			—			—			—
Net income (loss) attributable to Sun Communities, Inc. common stockholders	$	21,858		$	(11,330	)	$	10,528		$	18,896		$	(12,506	)	$	6,390

- Definition

Tabular disclosure of the profit or loss and total assets for each reportable segment. An entity discloses certain information on each reportable segment if the amounts (a) are included in the measure of segment profit or loss reviewed by the chief operating decision maker or (b) are otherwise regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker, even if not included in that measure of segment profit or loss.

+ References + Details

Derivative Instruments And Hedging Activities (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]

Schedule of Derivative Instruments [Table Text Block]

The following table provides the terms of our interest rate derivative contracts that were in effect as of September 30, 2013:

Type

Purpose

Effective Date

Maturity Date

Notional

(in millions)

Based on

Variable Rate

Fixed Rate

Spread

Effective Fixed Rate

Swap

Floating to Fixed Rate

1/1/2009

1/1/2014

20.0

3 Month LIBOR

0.2731%

2.1450%

1.8700%

4.0150%

Cap

Cap Floating Rate

4/1/2012

4/1/2015

152.4

3 Month LIBOR

0.2740%

11.2650%

—%

N/A

Cap

Cap Floating Rate

10/3/2011

10/3/2016

10.0

3 Month LIBOR

0.2740%

11.0200%

—%

N/A

Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block]

The following table summarizes the fair value of derivative instruments included in our consolidated balance sheets as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 (in thousands):



	Asset Derivatives					Liability Derivatives
	Balance Sheet Location	Fair Value				Balance Sheet Location	Fair Value
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments		September 30, 2013		December 31, 2012			September 30, 2013		December 31, 2012
Interest rate swaps and cap agreement	Other assets	$	—	$	—	Other liabilities	$	193	$	459
Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments		$	—	$	—		$	193	$	459

Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Effect on Other Comprehensive Income

The following tables summarize the impact of derivative instruments for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 as recorded in the consolidated statements of operations (in thousands):



Derivatives in cash flow hedging	Amount of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in OCI (Effective Portion)				Location of Gain or (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income (Effective Portion)	Amount of Gain or (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income (Effective Portion)				Location of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing)	Amount of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing)
	Three Months Ended September 30,					Three Months Ended September 30,					Three Months Ended September 30,
	2013		2012			2013		2012			2013		2012
Interest rate swaps and cap agreement	$	89	$	44	Interest expense	$	—	$	—	Interest expense	$	—	$	—
Total	$	89	$	44	Total	$	—	$	—	Total	$	—	$	—



Derivatives in cash flow hedging	Amount of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in OCI (Effective Portion)				Location of Gain or (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income (Effective Portion)	Amount of Gain or (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income (Effective Portion)				Location of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing)	Amount of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing)
	Nine Months Ended September 30,					Nine Months Ended September 30,					Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2013		2012			2013		2012			2013		2012
Interest rate swaps and cap agreement	$	266	$	643	Interest expense	$	—	$	—	Interest expense	$	—	$	3
Total	$	266	$	643	Total	$	—	$	—	Total	$	—	$	3

- Definition

Tabular disclosure of pertinent information about a derivative or group of derivatives on a disaggregated basis, such as for individual instruments, or small groups of similar instruments. May include a combination of the type of instrument, risks being hedged, notional amount, hedge designation, related hedged item, inception date, maturity date, or other relevant item.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 815
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 4B
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=7476318&loc=SL5624163-113959

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 815
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Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 815
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Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 815
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-Publisher FASB
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-Publisher FASB
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-Section 50
-Paragraph 1A
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=7476318&loc=SL5579245-113959

Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 815
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=7476318&loc=SL5579240-113959

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-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 815
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-Section 50
-Paragraph 1
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6886632&loc=d3e76258-113986

Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 235
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.4-08.(n)(2))
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6881521&loc=d3e23780-122690

Reference 11: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 815
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 2
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=7476318&loc=d3e41620-113959

+ Details

Earnings Per Share (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Earnings Per Share [Abstract]

Schedule of Calculation of Numerator and Denominator in Earnings Per Share [Table Text Block]

Computations of basic and diluted earnings per share from continuing operations were as follows (in thousands, except per share data):



	Three Months Ended September 30,					Nine Months Ended September 30,
Numerator	2013		2012			2013		2012
Basic earnings: net income attributable to common stockholders	$	3,749	$	(650	)	$	10,528	$	6,390
Add: amounts attributable to common noncontrolling interests	—		—			—		—
Diluted earnings: net income available to common stockholders and unitholders	$	3,749	$	(650	)	$	10,528	$	6,390
Denominator
Weighted average common shares outstanding	35,499		26,938			33,802		26,145
Weighted average unvested restricted stock outstanding	629		—			461		282
Basic weighted average common shares and unvested restricted stock outstanding	36,128		26,938			34,263		26,427
Add: dilutive securities	15		—			16		17
Diluted weighted average common shares and securities	36,143		26,938			34,279		26,444
Earnings per share available to common stockholders:
Basic	$	0.10	$	(0.02	)	$	0.31	$	0.24
Diluted	$	0.10	$	(0.02	)	$	0.31	$	0.24

Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table Text Block]

The following table presents the number of outstanding potentially dilutive securities that were excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 (amounts in thousands):



	Three Months Ended September 30,		Nine Months Ended September 30,
	2013	2012	2013	2012
Stock options	—	57	—	—
Unvested restricted stock	—	289	—	—
Common OP units	2,069	2,070	2,069	2,071
Series A-1 preferred OP units	1,111	1,111	1,111	1,111
Series A-3 preferred OP units	75	—	64	—
Aspen preferred OP units	526	526	526	526
Total securities	3,781	4,053	3,770	3,708

Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]

Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping

16. Fair Value of Financial Instruments, continued



	September 30, 2013				December 31, 2012
Financial assets	Carrying Value		Fair Value		Carrying Value		Fair Value
Installment notes on manufactured homes, net	$	24,605	$	24,605	$	21,898	$	21,898
Collateralized receivables, net	$	106,566	$	106,566	$	93,834	$	93,834
Financial liabilities
Derivative instruments	$	193	$	193	$	459	$	459
Long term debt (excluding secured borrowing)	$	1,246,205	$	1,263,936	$	1,329,311	$	1,355,331
Secured borrowing	$	107,243	$	107,243	$	94,409	$	94,409
Lines of credit	$	54,765	$	54,765	$	29,781	$	29,781

- Definition

Tabular disclosure of the fair value of financial instruments (as defined), including financial assets and financial liabilities (collectively, as defined), and the measurements of those instruments, assets, and liabilities. Such certain disclosures about the financial instruments, assets, and liabilities include: (1) the fair value of the required items together with their carrying amounts (as appropriate) and (2) the methodology and assumptions used in developing such estimates of fair value.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 825
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 12
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=7491637&loc=d3e13476-108611

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 820
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 2
-Subparagraph (a)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=7578670&loc=d3e19207-110258

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 825
-SubTopic 10
-Section 45
-Paragraph 2
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6447952&loc=d3e13220-108610

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 825
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 30
-Subparagraph (a)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6957238&loc=d3e14172-108612

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 825
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 10
-Subparagraph (a)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=7491637&loc=d3e13433-108611

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 159
-Paragraph 19
-Subparagraph a, b, c(1), d(1)
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 107
-Paragraph 14
-Subparagraph a
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 107
-Paragraph 15
-Subparagraph b-d
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 159
-Paragraph 18
-Subparagraph c(2), d, e, f
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 11: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 157
-Paragraph 32
-Subparagraph a, c(1), c(2), c(3), d
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 12: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 107
-Paragraph 10
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

+ Details

Real Estate Acquisitions , Narrative (Details) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013 USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2012 USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2013 USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2012 USD ($)	May 23, 2013 USD ($)	Apr. 18, 2013 USD ($)	Feb. 08, 2013 USD ($) properties
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Acquisition related costs	$ 619	$ 847	$ 2,769	$ 1,434
Big Timber Lake [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Number of sites					528
Contingent asset					$ 0
Morgan 10 [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Number of properties \| properties							10
Number of sites							3,700
Contingent asset							$ 10,000
Jellystone [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Number of sites						299
Contingent asset						$ 0

Real Estate Acquisitions , Schedule of 2013 Purchase Price Allocation (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2013	May 23, 2013	Apr. 18, 2013	Feb. 08, 2013
Morgan 10 [Member]
At acquistion date
Investment in property				$ 95,145
Inventory of manufactured homes				4,253
Contingent asset				10,000
In-place leases and other intangible assets				2,664
Other assets				157
Below market leases				0
Other liabilities				(3,697)
Total identifiable assets and liabilities assumed				108,522
Consideration
Cash				55,618
Series A-3 preferred OP units				3,463
Acquired notes receivable				49,441
Fair value of total consideration transferred				$ 108,522
Jellystone [Member]
At acquistion date
Investment in property			$ 8,264
Inventory of manufactured homes			1,490
Contingent asset			0
In-place leases and other intangible assets			390
Other assets			7
Below market leases			0
Other liabilities			(930)
Total identifiable assets and liabilities assumed			9,221
Consideration
Cash			9,221
Series A-3 preferred OP units			0
Acquired notes receivable			0
Fair value of total consideration transferred			$ 9,221
Big Timber Lake [Member]
At acquistion date
Investment in property		$ 21,548
Inventory of manufactured homes		350
Contingent asset		0
In-place leases and other intangible assets		580
Other assets		48
Below market leases		(3,490)
Other liabilities		(1,157)
Total identifiable assets and liabilities assumed		17,879
Consideration
Cash		17,879
Series A-3 preferred OP units		0
Acquired notes receivable		0
Fair value of total consideration transferred		$ 17,879
Total 2013 Acquisitions [Domain]
At acquistion date
Investment in property	$ 124,957
Inventory of manufactured homes	6,093
Contingent asset	10,000
In-place leases and other intangible assets	3,634
Other assets	212
Below market leases	(3,490)
Other liabilities	(5,784)
Total identifiable assets and liabilities assumed	135,622
Consideration
Cash	82,718
Series A-3 preferred OP units	3,463
Acquired notes receivable	49,441
Fair value of total consideration transferred	$ 135,622

Real Estate Acquisitions Schedule of 2012 Purchase Price Allocation (Details) - Mortgages [Member] - USD ($) $ in Millions	1 Months Ended
	Apr. 30, 2013	Jan. 31, 2013
Florida Properties [Member]
Consideration
Debt Instrument, Face Amount		$ 36.0
Extinguishment of Debt, Amount		30.0
RainbowRV [Member]
Consideration
Extinguishment of Debt, Amount	$ 0.6
Palm Creek [Member]
Consideration
Extinguishment of Debt, Amount		$ 36.0

Real Estate Acquisitions, Results of Operations (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Business Combination, Results of Operations [Line Items]
Revenue	$ 107,201	$ 83,018	$ 310,264	$ 248,158
Net income	5,263	$ (650)	15,070	$ 6,390
Series of Acquisitions [Member]
Business Combination, Results of Operations [Line Items]
Revenue	7,598		11,734
Net income	$ 2,021		$ 2,866

- Definition

The portion of profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, which is attributable to the parent.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Glossary Net Income
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6518256

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 230
-SubTopic 10
-Section 45
-Paragraph 28
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6943989&loc=d3e3602-108585

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 944
-SubTopic 225
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.7-04.19)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6879464&loc=d3e573970-122913

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 260
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6371337&loc=d3e3550-109257

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 225
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 2
-Subparagraph (SX 210.5-03.18)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6880815&loc=d3e20235-122688

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 944
-SubTopic 225
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.7-04.22)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6879464&loc=d3e573970-122913

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Glossary Other Comprehensive Income
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6519514

Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 220
-SubTopic 10
-Section 45
-Paragraph 6
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=20435746&loc=d3e565-108580

Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB)
-Number 51
-Paragraph 38
-Subparagraph d
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 130
-Paragraph 10, 15
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 11: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB)
-Number 51
-Paragraph A7
-Appendix A

Reference 12: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF)
-Number 87-21
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 13: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 19
-Article 5

Reference 14: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB)
-Number 51
-Paragraph 38
-Subparagraph a
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 15: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 95
-Paragraph 28, 29, 30
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 16: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 04
-Paragraph 20
-Article 9

+ Details

Real Estate Acquisitions , Pro Forma Information (Details) - Series of Acquisitions [Member] - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Total revenues	$ 103,838	$ 90,515	$ 314,029	$ 264,055
Net income attributable to Sun Communities, Inc. shareholders	$ 4,137	$ 4,294	$ 14,427	$ 14,294
Net income attributable to Sun Communities, Inc. shareholders - basic (in dollars per share)	$ 0.11	$ 0.16	$ 0.42	$ 0.54
Net income attributable to Sun Communities, Inc. shareholders - diluted (in dollars per share)	$ 0.11	$ 0.16	$ 0.42	$ 0.54

- Definition

The pro forma basic net income per share for a period as if the business combination or combinations had been completed at the beginning of a period.

+ References + Details

- Definition

The pro forma diluted net income per share for a period as if the business combination or combinations had been completed at the beginning of a period.

+ References + Details

Investment Property (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Real estate, investment property [Line Items]
Land	$ 191,589	$ 178,993
Land improvements and buildings	1,752,996	1,608,825
Rental homes and improvements	375,296	305,838
Furniture, fixtures, and equipment	60,139	54,354
Land held for future development	29,521	29,295
Investment property	2,409,541	2,177,305
Accumulated depreciation	(714,224)	(659,169)
Investment property, net	$ 1,695,317	$ 1,518,136

Transfers Of Financial Assets , Repurchase price percentage (Details) - Collateralized receivables [Member]	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Less than or equal to 15 [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Repurchase Percentage	100.00%
Greater than 15 but less than 64 [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Repurchase Percentage	90.00%
Equal to or greater than 64 but less than 120 [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Repurchase Percentage	65.00%
120 or more [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Repurchase Percentage	50.00%

Transfers Of Financial Assets , Schedule of collateralized loans (Details) - Collateralized receivables [Member] $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013 USD ($)
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Beginning balance	$ 94,409
Financed sales of manufactured homes	24,368
Principal payments and payoffs from our customers	4,834
Principal reduction from repurchased homes	6,700
Total activity	12,834
Ending balance	$ 107,243

Transfers Of Financial Assets , Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2012
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Notes and other receivables, net	$ 170,584		$ 170,584		$ 139,850
Secured debt	1,353,448		1,353,448		1,423,720
Secured Debt [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Secured debt	107,200		107,200		94,409
Collateralized receivables [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Notes and other receivables, net	106,500		106,500		93,834
Loans and Leases Receivable, Allowance	700		700		$ 600
Interest income and expense, net	$ 2,700	$ 2,400	$ 7,700	$ 6,800

- Definition

Amount of allowance to cover probable credit losses on loans and leases. Includes carryover of or adjustments to the allowance for loan losses in connection with business combinations. Excludes allowance for loans and leases covered under loss sharing agreements.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 942
-SubTopic 210
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.9-03.7(d))
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6876686&loc=d3e534808-122878

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 310
-SubTopic 30
-Section 50
-Paragraph 2
-Subparagraph (b)(1)(ii)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6379141&loc=d3e15032-111544

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher OTS
-Name Federal Regulation (FR)
-Number Title 12
-Section 563c.102
-Paragraph 8
-Subparagraph a(ii)
-Chapter V
-Subsection I
-LegacyDoc This is a non-GAAP reference that was included in the 2009 taxonomy. It will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 5
-Paragraph 8, 9
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 7
-Subparagraph d
-Article 9

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 114
-Paragraph 20
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Staff Accounting Bulletin (SAB)
-Number Topic 6
-Section L
-Subsection 1

+ Details

Schedule of notes and other receivables (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Total notes and other receivables, net	$ 170,584	$ 139,850
Collateralized receivables [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Total notes and other receivables, net	106,500	93,834
Other receivables, net [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Total notes and other receivables, net	39,413	24,118
Total notes and other receivables [Domain]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Total notes and other receivables, net	$ 170,584	$ 139,850

Notes And Other Receivables Installment Notes Receivable on Manufactured Homes Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Accounts and Notes Receivable, Net	$ 170,584	$ 139,850
Installment notes receivable on manufactured homes, net [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Loans and Leases Receivable, Allowance	$ 100	$ 100
Receivable with imputed interest, rate	8.90%	8.60%
Receivable With Imputed Interest, Term	11 years 10 months 24 days	11 years
Carrying Value [Member] \| Installment notes receivable on manufactured homes, net [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Accounts and Notes Receivable, Net	$ 24,605	$ 21,898

- Definition

+ References

+ Details

Schedule of Installment Notes Receivable (Details) - Installment notes receivable on manufactured homes, gross [Member] $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013 USD ($)
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Beginning balance	$ 22,019
Financed sales of manufactured homes	6,354
Principal payments and payoffs from our customers	2,962
Principal reduction from repossessed homes	675
Total activity	2,717
Ending balance	$ 24,736

Collateralized Receivables Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Notes and other receivables, net	$ 170,584	$ 139,850
Collateralized receivables [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Notes and other receivables, net	106,500	93,834
Loans and Leases Receivable, Allowance	$ (700)	$ (600)
Receivable with imputed interest, rate	10.70%	11.00%
Receivable With Imputed Interest, Term	13 years 6 months	13 years 2 months 12 days
Installment notes receivable on manufactured homes, gross [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Notes Receivable, Repurchase Percentage	100.00%
Notes Receivable Outstanding Principal Balance, Maximum Exposure	$ 10,000
Carrying Value [Member] \| Collateralized receivables [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Notes and other receivables, net	$ 106,566	$ 93,834

Allowance for collateralized and installment notes receivable (Details) - Collateralized receivables, net and Installment Notes Receivables on Manufactured Homes [Member] $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013 USD ($)
Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$ 697
Lower of cost or market write-downs	322
Increase to reserve balance	(433)
Total activity	(111)
Ending balance	$ 808

- Definition

+ References

+ Details

Notes And Other Receivables Other Receivables Narrative(Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2013	Feb. 08, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Other receivables for rent, water, sewer usage	$ 8,000		$ 4,100
Allowance for rent, water, sewer usage receivables	(600)		(500)
Home sale proceeds	6,300		6,100
Insurance receivables	2,500		1,700
Insurance Settlements Receivable	3,700		3,700
Note receivable related to acquistion	5,300		5,000
Other Receivables	3,600		$ 3,500
Pledged Assets, Series A-3 preferred OP units	4,000
Morgan 10 [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Note receivable related to acquistion	$ 5,000
Contingent asset		$ 10,000
Notes Receivable [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Loans Receivable, Basis Spread on Variable Rate	475.00%

Intangibles (Details) - Leases, Acquired-in-Place [Member] - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2012
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization period (in years)			7 years
Gross carrying amount	$ 39.0		$ 39.0		$ 35.3
Accumulated amortization	13.8		13.8		$ 11.8
Aggregate net amortization net expense	$ 1.2	$ 0.7	$ 3.6	$ 2.2

Investment In Affiliates , Narrative (Details)	Sep. 30, 2013 USD ($) $ / shares shares
Origen Financial Services [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Ownership percentage	22.90%
Investment carrying value	$ 0
Origen Financial [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Ownership percentage	19.00%
Investment carrying value	$ 0
Investment owned (in shares) \| shares	5,000,000
Market value of investment company	$ 5,800,000
Origen quoted market closing price (in dollars per share) \| $ / shares	$ 1.15

Investment In Affiliates , Schedule of Investments (Details) - Origen Financial [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Revenues	$ 12,079	$ 14,228	$ 37,959	$ 50,608
Expenses	(13,123)	(16,619)	(40,683)	(52,427)
Net loss	$ (1,044)	$ (2,391)	$ (2,724)	$ (1,819)

- Definition

The amount of net income (loss) reported by an equity method investment of the entity.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 323
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 3
-Subparagraph (c)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6382943&loc=d3e33918-111571

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 825
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 28
-Subparagraph (f)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6957238&loc=d3e14064-108612

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 235
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.4-08.(g))
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6881521&loc=d3e23780-122690

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 323
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 2
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6382943&loc=d3e33912-111571

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 02
-Paragraph bb
-Article 1

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 159
-Paragraph 18
-Subparagraph f
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB)
-Number 18
-Paragraph 20
-Subparagraph d
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 02
-Paragraph w
-Article 1

Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 08
-Paragraph g
-Subparagraph 1, 2
-Article 4

+ Details

Consolidated Variable Interest Entities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Investment Property, net	$ 56,326	$ 56,326
Other Assets	3,882	4,598
Total Assets	60,208	60,924
Debt	45,386	45,900
Other Liabilities	5,012	1,773
Noncontrolling interests	(920)	(508)
Total Liabilities and Stockholder's Equity	$ 49,478	$ 47,165
VIE as a Percentage of Consolidated Assets	3.10%	3.50%
VIE as a Percentage of Consolidated Liabilities	3.30%	3.10%

Debt And Lines Of Credit , Table - Schedule of debt and lines of credit (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt	$ 1,353,448	$ 1,423,720
Debt weighted average to maturity, years	6 years 6 months	6 years 9 months 18 days
Weighted average interest rate	5.30%	5.20%
Collateralized term loans - CMBS [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt	$ 682,368	$ 725,951
Debt weighted average to maturity, years	4 years 1 month 6 days	4 years 6 months
Weighted average interest rate	5.40%	5.20%
Collateralized term loans - FNMA [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt	$ 366,917	$ 369,810
Debt weighted average to maturity, years	9 years 7 months 6 days	10 years 3 months 18 days
Weighted average interest rate	3.60%	3.80%
Aspen Series B3 Preferred Operating Partnership Units [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt	$ 47,022	$ 47,322
Debt weighted average to maturity, years	7 years 10 months 24 days	8 years 4 months 24 days
Weighted average interest rate	6.90%	6.90%
Secured borrowing [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt	$ 107,200	$ 94,409
Debt weighted average to maturity, years	13 years 4 months 24 days	12 years 9 months 18 days
Weighted average interest rate	10.70%	11.00%
Mortgage notes, other [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt	$ 149,898	$ 186,228
Debt weighted average to maturity, years	6 years	6 years 2 months 12 days
Weighted average interest rate	4.60%	4.30%
Line of Credit [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount	$ 4,000	$ 4,000
Carrying Value [Member] \| Secured borrowing [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt	$ 107,243	$ 94,409

Debt And Lines Of Credit , Narrative - Collateralized Term Loans (Details) $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013 USD ($) properties sites Rate	Dec. 31, 2012 USD ($) Rate
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt weighted average to maturity, length	6 years 6 months	6 years 9 months 18 days
Weighted average interest rate \| Rate	5.30%	5.20%
Total debt	$ 1,353,448	$ 1,423,720
Collateralized term loans - CMBS [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt weighted average to maturity, length	4 years 1 month 6 days	4 years 6 months
Weighted average interest rate \| Rate	5.40%	5.20%
Total debt	$ 682,368	$ 725,951
Collateralized term loans - FNMA [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt weighted average to maturity, length	9 years 7 months 6 days	10 years 3 months 18 days
Weighted average interest rate \| Rate	3.60%	3.80%
Total debt	$ 366,917	$ 369,810
Collateralized commercial mortgage backed securities [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total debt	1,000,000
Net book value of properties securing collateralized term loans	$ 668,000
Collateralized commercial mortgage backed securities [Member] \| Collateralized term loans - PNC and FNMA [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Weighted average interest rate \| Rate	4.30%
Total debt	$ 151,400
Properties securing debt [Member] \| Collateralized commercial mortgage backed securities [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Number of properties securing a debt instument (in properties) \| properties	99
Number of sites \| sites	39,342

Debt And Lines Of Credit , Narrative - Aspen Preferred OP Units and Series B-3 preferred OP units (Details) - Aspen Preferred OP Units [Member] - Convertible debt - Aspen Preferred OP Units January 2024 [Member]	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013 shares $ / shares Rate
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Convertible units to shares (in shares) \| shares	526,212
Conversion Price (in dollars per share) \| $ / shares	$ 68
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate During Period \| Rate	6.50%

- Definition

The number of equity instruments that the holder of the debt instrument would receive if the debt was converted to equity.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 210
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.22(a)(5))
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 505
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 6
-Subparagraph (b)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6928386&loc=d3e21506-112644

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 505
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 3
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6928386&loc=d3e21475-112644

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 505
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 7
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6928386&loc=d3e21521-112644

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name FASB Staff Position (FSP)
-Number APB14-1
-Paragraph 32
-Subparagraph b
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 129
-Paragraph 4
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 02
-Paragraph 22
-Article 5

+ Details

Debt And Lines Of Credit , Narrative - Mortgage Notes (Details) $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended			9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	May 31, 2013 USD ($)	Apr. 30, 2013 USD ($)	Jan. 31, 2013 USD ($) Rate	Sep. 30, 2013 USD ($) properties sites Rate	Dec. 31, 2012 USD ($) Rate
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt weighted average to maturity, length				6 years 6 months	6 years 9 months 18 days
Weighted average interest rate \| Rate				5.30%	5.20%
Total debt				$ 1,353,448	$ 1,423,720
Mortgages [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt weighted average to maturity, length				6 years	6 years 2 months 12 days
Weighted average interest rate \| Rate				4.60%	4.30%
Total debt				$ 149,898	$ 186,228
Mortgages [Member] \| Holiday West Village [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Extinguishment of Debt, Amount	$ 3,500
RainbowRV [Member] \| Mortgages [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Extinguishment of Debt, Amount		$ 600
Palm Creek [Member] \| Mortgages [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Weighted average interest rate \| Rate			2.00%
Extinguishment of Debt, Amount			$ 36,000
Florida Properties [Member] \| Mortgages [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Extinguishment of Debt, Amount			30,000
Debt Instrument, Face Amount			$ 36,000
Properties securing debt [Member] \| Mortgages [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Number of properties securing a debt instument (in properties) \| properties				20
Number of sites \| sites				8,317
Net book value of properties securing mortgage notes				$ 252,400

Debt And Lines Of Credit , Narrative - Line of Credit (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended	4 Months Ended	5 Months Ended	9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2013	May 14, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Jul. 31, 2013
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Weighted average interest rate			5.30%	5.30%	5.20%
Debt weighted average to maturity, length				6 years 6 months	6 years 9 months 18 days
Line of Credit [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of credit, borrowing capacity		$ 150.0	$ 350.0	$ 350.0
Line of credit, outstanding balance			51.7	51.7	$ 0.0
Letters of credit outstanding, amount			$ 4.0	$ 4.0	4.0
Effective interest rate, minimum		2.25%	1.65%
Effective interest rate, maximum		2.95%	2.90%
Line of credit variable interest rate			1.65%	1.65%
Line of credit maturity date			May 15, 2017
Line of credit, additional borrowing capacity			$ 250.0	$ 250.0
Line of credit - rental home portfolio [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of credit, borrowing capacity			20.0	20.0	50.0	$ 50.0
Line of credit, outstanding balance			$ 0.0	$ 0.0	25.0
Line of credit, outstanding loan balance, percent			200.00%	200.00%
Basis points			200.00%	200.00%
Stated interest rate, minimum				5.50%
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage			5.50%	5.50%
Line of credit - manufactured home floor plan facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of credit, borrowing capacity			$ 12.0	$ 12.0
Line of credit, outstanding balance			$ 3.1	$ 3.1	$ 4.8
Weighted average interest rate			7.00%	7.00%
Basis points			100.00%	100.00%
Prime Rate [Member] \| Line of credit - manufactured home floor plan facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Effective interest rate, maximum				6.00%
Morgan 10 [Member] \| Line of Credit - BMO [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Extinguishment of Debt, Amount	$ 61.5

Equity Transactions Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions		1 Months Ended			3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Oct. 15, 2013	Oct. 18, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Feb. 28, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Nov. 30, 2004
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Treasury Stock, Value					$ 63.6
Dividends per common share:					$ 0.63	$ 0.63	$ 1.89	$ 1.89
Common Stock
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Dividends per common share:					0.63
Common Stock \| Dividend Paid [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Dividends, Common Stock, Cash		$ 24.1
Preferred Stock [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Preferred Stock, Dividends Per Share, Declared					$ 0.4453
Preferred Stock [Member] \| Dividend Paid [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Dividends, Preferred Stock, Cash	$ 1.5
Registered public offering [Member] \| Common Stock
Class of Stock [Line Items]
New shares issued (in shares)			5,750,000
Weighted average sale price (in dollars per share)			$ 45.25
Proceeds from issuance of common stock			$ 249.5
Series A-3 Preferred OP Units [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Preferred OP units issued				$ 4.0
Equity, Preferred OP unit, conversion price				$ 53.75
Equity, preferred return rate				4.50%
Conversion of Common OP Units [Member] \| Common OP Units [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Conversion of Common OP Units to common stock (in shares)					0	0	0	2,000
Repurchase of Equity [Member] \| Common Stock
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Authorized to be repurchased (in shares)									1,000,000
Remaining number of shares authorized to be repurchased (in shares)					400,000		400,000

Share-Based Compensation , Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended				9 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Feb. 28, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Proceeds from stock option exercise					$ 201	$ 149
Restricted Stock [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Weighted average grant date fair value	$ 48.22	$ 47.56	$ 45.68	$ 45.69
Vested restricted stock (in shares)					36,666
Restricted Stock [Member] \| 2004 non-employee plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Granted, shares (in shares)				10,800
Restricted Stock [Member] \| 2009 Equity Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Granted, shares (in shares)	36,000	250,000	1,000	73,000
August 6, 2016 [Member] \| Restricted Stock [Member] \| 2009 Equity Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Award vesting rights	0.35
August 6, 2017 [Member] \| Restricted Stock [Member] \| 2009 Equity Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Award vesting rights	0.35
August 6, 2018 [Member] \| Restricted Stock [Member] \| 2009 Equity Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Award vesting rights	0.2
August 6, 2019 [Member] \| Restricted Stock [Member] \| 2009 Equity Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Award vesting rights	.05
August 6, 2020 [Member] \| Restricted Stock [Member] \| 2009 Equity Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Award vesting rights	.05
June 20, 2017 [Member] \| Restricted Stock [Member] \| 2009 Equity Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Award vesting rights		87500
June 20, 2018 [Member] \| Restricted Stock [Member] \| 2009 Equity Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Award vesting rights		87500
June 20, 2018 [Member] \| Restricted Stock [Member] \| 2009 Equity Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Award vesting rights		50000
June 20, 2019 [Member] \| Restricted Stock [Member] \| 2009 Equity Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Award vesting rights		12500
June 20, 2020 [Member] \| Restricted Stock [Member] \| 2009 Equity Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Award vesting rights		12500

Segment Reporting Segment Reporting, Seasonality (Details) - Real Property Operations Segment [Member] - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Expected Annual Seasonal Transient RV Revenue		$ 18.0
Seasonal RV Rental Revenue Recognized, Percentage	18.00%	29.00%	14.00%	39.00%

Segment Reporting Results of Operations (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue, Net	$ 102,748	$ 80,188	$ 298,952	$ 239,845
Operating Expenses and Cost of Sales	45,646	35,909	127,351	103,627
Operating Income (Loss)	57,102	44,279	171,601	136,218
Other Revenues, Segment	4,453	2,830	11,312	8,313
General and Administrative Expense	8,154	7,070	26,559	21,390
Acquisition related costs	619	847	2,769	1,434
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Nonproduction	28,790	22,092	80,116	63,027
Interest Expense	18,632	17,891	57,318	53,143
Equity income (loss) and distributions from affiliates	700	600	1,550	3,250
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	90	84	186	190
Net income (loss)	5,970	(275)	17,515	8,597
Preferred return to Series A-1 preferred OP units	690	586	1,909	1,744
Preferred return to Series A-3 preferred OP units	45	0	121	0
Less: Amounts attributable to noncontrolling interests	(28)	(211)	415	463
Net income attributable to Sun Communities, Inc.	5,263	(650)	15,070	6,390
Series A preferred stock distributions	1,514	0	4,542	0
Net income attributable to Sun Communities, Inc. common stockholders	3,749	(650)	10,528	6,390
Real Property Operations Segment [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue, Net	80,158	63,015	234,969	188,818
Operating Expenses and Cost of Sales	29,981	23,000	83,739	66,002
Operating Income (Loss)	50,177	40,015	151,230	122,816
Other Revenues, Segment	3,521	2,942	9,936	8,437
General and Administrative Expense	5,927	5,165	19,086	15,405
Acquisition related costs	619	847	2,769	1,434
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Nonproduction	19,551	14,760	53,757	41,798
Interest Expense	18,628	17,885	56,985	53,051
Equity income (loss) and distributions from affiliates	700	600	1,550	3,250
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	90	84	186	190
Net income (loss)	9,583	4,816	29,933	22,625
Less: Amounts attributable to noncontrolling interests	272	328	1,503	1,985
Net income attributable to Sun Communities, Inc.	8,576	3,902	26,400	18,896
Series A preferred stock distributions	1,514	0	4,542	0
Net income attributable to Sun Communities, Inc. common stockholders	7,062	3,902	21,858	18,896
Home Sales and Home Rentals Segment [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue, Net	22,590	17,173	63,983	51,027
Operating Expenses and Cost of Sales	15,665	12,909	43,612	37,625
Operating Income (Loss)	6,925	4,264	20,371	13,402
Other Revenues, Segment	932	(112)	1,376	(124)
General and Administrative Expense	2,227	1,905	7,473	5,985
Acquisition related costs	0	0	0	0
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Nonproduction	9,239	7,332	26,359	21,229
Interest Expense	4	6	333	92
Equity income (loss) and distributions from affiliates	0	0	0	0
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	0	0	0	0
Net income (loss)	(3,613)	(5,091)	(12,418)	(14,028)
Less: Amounts attributable to noncontrolling interests	(300)	(539)	(1,088)	(1,522)
Net income attributable to Sun Communities, Inc.	(3,313)	(4,552)	(11,330)	(12,506)
Series A preferred stock distributions	0	0	0	0
Net income attributable to Sun Communities, Inc. common stockholders	(3,313)	(4,552)	(11,330)	(12,506)
Series A-1 Preferred OP Units [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Preferred return to Series A-1 preferred OP units	690	586	1,909	1,744
Series A-1 Preferred OP Units [Member] \| Real Property Operations Segment [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Preferred return to Series A-1 preferred OP units	690	586	1,909	1,744
Series A-1 Preferred OP Units [Member] \| Home Sales and Home Rentals Segment [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Preferred return to Series A-1 preferred OP units	0	0	0	0
Series A-3 Preferred OP Units [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Preferred return to Series A-3 preferred OP units	45	0	121	0
Series A-3 Preferred OP Units [Member] \| Real Property Operations Segment [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Preferred return to Series A-3 preferred OP units	45	0	121	0
Series A-3 Preferred OP Units [Member] \| Home Sales and Home Rentals Segment [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Preferred return to Series A-3 preferred OP units	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0

Segment Reporting Identifiable Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Investment property, net	$ 1,695,317	$ 1,518,136
Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value	4,955	29,508	$ 38,724	$ 5,857
Inventory of manufactured homes	4,005	7,527
Accounts and Notes Receivable, Net	170,584	139,850
Other assets	61,830	59,607
TOTAL ASSETS	1,936,691	1,754,628
Real Property Operations Segment [Member]
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Investment property, net	1,416,314	1,296,753
Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value	4,452	29,071
Inventory of manufactured homes	0	0
Accounts and Notes Receivable, Net	160,964	131,000
Other assets	58,043	54,959
TOTAL ASSETS	1,639,773	1,511,783
Home Sales and Home Rentals Segment [Member]
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Investment property, net	279,003	221,383
Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value	503	437
Inventory of manufactured homes	4,005	7,527
Accounts and Notes Receivable, Net	9,620	8,850
Other assets	3,787	4,648
TOTAL ASSETS	$ 296,918	$ 242,845

- Definition

Amount of currency on hand as well as demand deposits with banks or financial institutions. Includes other kinds of accounts that have the general characteristics of demand deposits. Also includes short-term, highly liquid investments that are both readily convertible to known amounts of cash and so near their maturity that they present insignificant risk of changes in value because of changes in interest rates. Excludes cash and cash equivalents within disposal group and discontinued operation.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Glossary Cash
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6506951

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 210
-SubTopic 10
-Section 45
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (a)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6361293&loc=d3e6676-107765

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 230
-SubTopic 10
-Section 45
-Paragraph 4
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6943989&loc=d3e3044-108585

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Glossary Cash Equivalents
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6507016

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 210
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.1)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 02
-Paragraph 1
-Article 5

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 95
-Paragraph 7, 26
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 95
-Paragraph 7
-Footnote 1
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 95
-Paragraph 8, 9
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

+ Details

Derivative Instruments And Hedging Activities , Derivative Contracts (Details) $ in Millions	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013 USD ($) Derivative_Contracts
Interest Rate Contract [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Number of Interest Rate Derivatives Held (number of derivative contracts) \| Derivative_Contracts	3
Interest Rate Swap [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Number of Interest Rate Derivatives Held (number of derivative contracts) \| Derivative_Contracts	1
Notional Amount of Derivatives	$ 20.0
Interest Rate Swap [Member] \| Derivative Maturing 2014 [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Notional Amount of Derivatives	$ 20.0
Derivative, Type	Swap
Derivative, Purpose	Floating to Fixed Rate
Derivative, Effective Date	Jan. 01, 2009
Derivative, Maturity Date	Jan. 01, 2014
Derivative, Based on	3 Month LIBOR
Derivative, Variable Rate	0.2731%
Derivative, Fixed Rate	2.145%
Derivative, Spread on Variable Rate	1.87%
Derivative, Effective Fixed Rate	4.015%
Interest Rate Cap [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Number of Interest Rate Derivatives Held (number of derivative contracts) \| Derivative_Contracts	2
Notional Amount of Derivatives	$ 162.4
Interest Rate Cap [Member] \| Derivative Maturing 2015 [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Notional Amount of Derivatives	$ 152.4
Derivative, Type	Cap
Derivative, Purpose	Cap Floating Rate
Derivative, Effective Date	Apr. 01, 2012
Derivative, Maturity Date	Apr. 01, 2015
Derivative, Based on	3 Month LIBOR
Derivative, Variable Rate	0.274%
Derivative, Fixed Rate	11.265%
Derivative, Spread on Variable Rate	0.00%
Interest Rate Cap [Member] \| Derivative Maturing 2016 [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Notional Amount of Derivatives	$ 10.0
Derivative, Type	Cap
Derivative, Purpose	Cap Floating Rate
Derivative, Effective Date	Oct. 03, 2011
Derivative, Maturity Date	Oct. 03, 2016
Derivative, Based on	3 Month LIBOR
Derivative, Variable Rate	0.274%
Derivative, Fixed Rate	11.02%
Derivative, Spread on Variable Rate	0.00%

Derivative Instruments And Hedging Activities , Balance Sheet Location (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Asset Derivatives	$ 0	$ 0
Liability Derivatives	193	459
Other Assets [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Asset Derivatives	0	0
Collateral Already Posted, Aggregate Fair Value	$ 700	1,200
Other liabilities [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Liability Derivatives		$ 459

- Definition

Fair values as of the balance sheet date of all assets resulting from contracts that meet the criteria of being accounted for as derivative instruments, net of the effects of master netting arrangements.

+ References + Details

- Definition

Fair values as of the balance sheet date of all liabilities resulting from contracts that meet the criteria of being accounted for as derivative instruments, net of the effects of master netting arrangements.

+ References + Details

Derivative Instruments And Hedging Activities , Statement of Operation Location (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Amount of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in OCI (Effective Portion)	$ 89	$ 44	$ 266	$ 643
Amount of Gain or (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income (Effective Portion)	0	0	0	0
Amount of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derviative (Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing)	0	0	0	3
Interest rate swaps and cap agreement [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Amount of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in OCI (Effective Portion)	89	44	266	643
Interest rate swaps and cap agreement [Member] \| Interest expense [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Amount of Gain or (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income (Effective Portion)	0	0	0	0
Amount of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derviative (Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing)	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 3

Income Taxes , Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
Income Taxes , Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items]
Deferred Tax Assets, Net	$ 1,000		$ 1,000		$ 1,000
Provision for state income taxes	$ 90	$ 84	$ 186	$ 190

- Definition

The component of income tax expense for the period representing amounts paid or payable (or refundable) as determined by applying the provisions of enacted state and local tax law to relevant amounts of taxable Income or Loss from continuing operations.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 740
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SAB TOPIC 6.I.7)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6889476&loc=d3e330036-122817

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Glossary Current Tax Expense (or Benefit)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6509736

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 740
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 9
-Subparagraph (a)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6907707&loc=d3e32639-109319

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 235
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.4-08.(h))
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6881521&loc=d3e23780-122690

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 109
-Paragraph 45
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 08
-Paragraph h
-Article 4

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Staff Accounting Bulletin (SAB)
-Number Topic 6
-Section I
-Subsection 7

Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 109
-Paragraph 289
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

+ Details

Earnings Per Share , Calculation of Numerator and Denominator (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Numerator
Basic earnings: net income attributable to common stockholders	$ 3,749	$ (650)	$ 10,528	$ 6,390
Add: amounts attributable to noncontrolling interest	0	0	0	0
Diluted earnings: net income available to common stockholders and unitholders	$ 3,749	$ (650)	$ 10,528	$ 6,390
Denominator
Weighted average common shares outstanding	35,499	26,938	33,802	26,145
Weighted average unvested restricted stock outstanding	629	0	461	282
Basic Weighted average common shares outstanding	36,128	26,938	34,263	26,427
Add: dilutive securities	15	0	16	17
Diluted weighted average common shares	36,143	26,938	34,279	26,444
Basic	$ 0.10	$ (0.02)	$ 0.31	$ 0.24
Diluted	$ 0.10	$ (0.02)	$ 0.31	$ 0.24

Earnings Per Share , Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Loss Per Share (Details) - shares shares in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount	3,781	4,053	3,770	3,708
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Restricted Stock Award, Net of Forfeitures	0	289	0	0
Stock Options [Member]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount	0	57	0	0
Common OP Units [Member]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount	2,069	2,070	2,069	2,071
Series A-1 Preferred OP Units [Member]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount	1,111	1,111	1,111	1,111
Series A-3 Preferred OP Units [Member]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount	75	0	64	0
Aspen Preferred OP Units [Member]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount	526	526	526	526

- Definition

Securities (including those issuable pursuant to contingent stock agreements) that could potentially dilute basic earnings per share (EPS) or earnings per unit (EPU) in the future that were not included in the computation of diluted EPS or EPU because to do so would increase EPS or EPU amounts or decrease loss per share or unit amounts for the period presented.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Glossary Antidilution
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6505113

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Glossary Diluted Earnings Per Share
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6510752

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Glossary Contingent Stock Agreement
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6508534

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 260
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (c)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6371337&loc=d3e3550-109257

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 128
-Paragraph 40
-Subparagraph c
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 128
-Paragraph 13, 14
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF)
-Number 07-4
-Paragraph 4
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 128
-Paragraph 171
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

+ Details

- Definition

Number of shares issued during the period related to Restricted Stock Awards, net of any shares forfeited.

+ References + Details

Fair Value of Financial Instruments , By Balance Sheet Grouping (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Financial assets
Notes and other receivables, net	$ 170,584	$ 139,850
Financial liabilities
Liability Derivatives	193	459
Secured debt	1,353,448	1,423,720
Collateralized receivables [Member]
Financial assets
Notes and other receivables, net	106,500	93,834
Other liabilities [Member]
Financial liabilities
Liability Derivatives		459
Secured Debt [Member]
Financial liabilities
Secured debt	107,200	94,409
Carrying Value [Member]
Financial liabilities
Long term debt excluding secured borrowings	1,246,205	1,329,311
Lines of credit	54,765	29,781
Carrying Value [Member] \| Installment notes receivable on manufactured homes, net [Member]
Financial assets
Notes and other receivables, net	24,605	21,898
Carrying Value [Member] \| Collateralized receivables [Member]
Financial assets
Notes and other receivables, net	106,566	93,834
Carrying Value [Member] \| Other liabilities [Member]
Financial liabilities
Liability Derivatives	193	459
Carrying Value [Member] \| Secured Debt [Member]
Financial liabilities
Secured debt	107,243	94,409
Fair Value [Member] \| Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Financial liabilities
Liability Derivatives	193	459
Long term debt excluding secured borrowings	1,263,936	1,355,331
Secured debt	107,243	94,409
Lines of credit	54,765	29,781
Fair Value [Member] \| Installment notes receivable on manufactured homes, net [Member] \| Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Financial assets
Receivables	24,605	21,898
Fair Value [Member] \| Collateralized receivables [Member] \| Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Financial assets
Receivables	$ 106,566	$ 93,834

Commitments And Contingencies (Details)	3 Months Ended
Commitments And Contingencies (Details)	Sep. 30, 2013 USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2011 USD ($)	Feb. 08, 2013 USD ($) properties	Dec. 31, 2012 USD ($)
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Note receivable related to acquistion	$ 5,300,000			$ 5,000,000
TJ Holdings, LLC [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Payments for Legal Settlements		$ 360,000
Minimum [Member] \| TJ Holdings, LLC [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Loss Contingency, Settlement Agreement, Ownership Percentage, After Qualifying Event with Joint Venture Properties		9.03%
Maximum [Member] \| TJ Holdings, LLC [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Loss Contingency, Settlement Agreement, Closing Stock Price Determination, Period Preceeding Qualifying Event with Joint Venture Properties		30 days
Loss Contingency, Settlement Agreement, Ownership Percentage, After Qualifying Event with Joint Venture Properties		28.99%
Morgan 10 [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Increase to principal balance of note receivable	250,000
Note receivable related to acquistion	$ 5,000,000
Cash			$ 55,618,000
Number of properties \| properties			10

Label	Element	Value
Stock Options [Member] \| 2004 non-employee plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period	us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised	9,442