Note 13 - Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Details) - Valuation for Level 3 Assets and Liabilities (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2013
Dec. 31, 2012
Dec. 31, 2011
Valuation for Level 3 Assets and Liabilities [Abstract]      
Balance at beginning of period $ 5,514,065 $ 41,185  
Included in earnings (1) (470,467) [1] 167,094 [1]    [1]
Included in other comprehensive income 15,532 3,768 (1,036)
Purchases 3,218,301 4,212,009 42,221
Paydowns (73,831) (28,034)  
Transfers (2)    [2] 1,118,043 [2]    [2]
Balance at the end of period 8,203,600 5,514,065 41,185
Balance at beginning of period 5,319,573    
Included in earnings (1) (521,416) [1] 152,440 [1]    [1]
Purchases 3,146,676 4,077,276  
Paydowns (73,813) (28,034)  
Transfers (2)    [2] 1,117,891 [2]    [2]
Balance at the end of period $ 7,871,020 $ 5,319,573  
[1] Amounts included in interest income from multi-family loans held in securitization trusts and unrealized gain on multi-family loans and debt held in securitization trusts, net.
[2] Based on a number of factors, we determined that we were the primary beneficiary of one K-Series securitization as of January 4, 2012 and have consolidated its assets, liabilities, income and expenses in our consolidated financial statements.