Plain-English definitions, reviewed by an independent investor

REIT

A REIT is a company that owns or finances income property and must pay out most profit as dividends.

A REIT is a company that owns or finances income property and must pay out most profit as dividends.

(Real Estate Investment Trust — a pass-through structure)

Why it matters

It lets you own real estate yield without buying buildings.

Common confusion

Rates matter: rising rates can pressure REIT prices even as dividends hold.

Definitions reviewed by the Investing Glossary editorial team.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do REITs pay high dividends?

Tax rules require distributing most taxable income to shareholders.

REIT vs direct property?

Liquid and small-ticket, but you take market-price risk.

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