A Beginner’s Guide to Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) for Capital Preservation

Real estate investment trusts (REITs) have become a popular choice for investors seeking capital preservation and steady income. This beginner’s guide will introduce you to the world of REITs, explain their benefits, and provide valuable insights for those looking to invest in this asset class. We will also discuss the different types of REITs, their performance, and how to get started with your investment journey.

What are Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)?

REITs are companies that own, operate, or finance income-producing real estate properties. They provide investors with an opportunity to invest in a diversified portfolio of real estate assets without the need to directly own or manage the properties. REITs are required to distribute at least 90% of their taxable income to shareholders in the form of dividends, making them an attractive option for income-seeking investors.

Benefits of Investing in REITs for Capital Preservation

There are several reasons why investors choose REITs for capital preservation:

• Steady Income: REITs are known for their consistent dividend payments, providing investors with a reliable source of income.
• Diversification: Investing in REITs allows you to diversify your portfolio by adding exposure to the real estate sector, which can help reduce overall risk.
• Liquidity: Unlike direct real estate investments, REITs are traded on major stock exchanges, making them easy to buy and sell.
• Inflation Hedge: Real estate assets tend to appreciate in value over time, providing a hedge against inflation and helping to preserve capital.
• Professional Management: REITs are managed by experienced professionals, ensuring that the properties are well-maintained and generating income.

Types of REITs

There are three main types of REITs:

• Equity REITs: These REITs own and manage income-producing properties, such as office buildings, shopping centers, and apartment complexes. They generate income primarily through rental income from their properties.
• Mortgage REITs: Also known as mREITs, these REITs invest in mortgages or mortgage-backed securities. They generate income from the interest payments on these loans.
• Hybrid REITs: These REITs combine the investment strategies of both equity and mortgage REITs, owning properties and investing in mortgages or mortgage-backed securities.

Performance of REITs

Historically, REITs have provided investors with strong returns and capital preservation. According to the National Association of Real Estate Investment Trusts (NAREIT), the total return of the FTSE Nareit All Equity REITs Index was 20.55% in 2019 and 18.37% in 2020. Additionally, the 10-year average annual return for the index was 9.47% as of December 2020.

It’s important to note that past performance is not indicative of future results, and individual REITs can vary in performance. However, these historical returns demonstrate the potential for strong returns and capital preservation when investing in REITs.

Case Study: Realty Income Corporation

Realty Income Corporation (NYSE: O) is a prime example of a successful equity REIT. Founded in 1969, Realty Income owns over 6,500 properties across 49 states and Puerto Rico. The company focuses on retail and commercial properties, with tenants including Walgreens, 7-Eleven, and FedEx.

Realty Income has a strong track record of capital preservation and income generation. The company has paid monthly dividends for over 50 years and has increased its dividend for 25 consecutive years. As of December 2020, Realty Income’s 10-year average annual total return was 13.9%, demonstrating the potential for strong returns and capital preservation in the REIT sector.

How to Get Started with REIT Investing

There are several ways to invest in REITs:

• Individual REITs: You can purchase shares of individual REITs through a brokerage account, just like you would with any other publicly traded stock.
• REIT Mutual Funds: These funds invest in a diversified portfolio of REITs, providing exposure to the real estate sector without the need to research and select individual REITs.
• REIT Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs): Similar to mutual funds, ETFs provide diversified exposure to REITs but trade on stock exchanges like individual stocks, offering increased liquidity and lower fees.

Before investing in REITs, it’s essential to conduct thorough research and consider factors such as the REIT’s property types, geographic locations, management team, and dividend history. Additionally, consult with a financial advisor to ensure that REITs align with your overall investment strategy and risk tolerance.

Conclusion

Real estate investment trusts (REITs) offer investors an attractive option for capital preservation and income generation. By investing in a diversified portfolio of income-producing properties, REITs provide exposure to the real estate sector without the need for direct ownership or management. With their consistent dividend payments, liquidity, and potential for capital appreciation, REITs can be a valuable addition to an investor’s portfolio. As with any investment, thorough research and consultation with a financial advisor are crucial to ensure that REITs align with your investment goals and risk tolerance.