What are the best Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) ETFs?
6 min read
By Beqa Bumbeishvili, ETF Insider

What are the best Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) ETFs?

Looking to invest in Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) but unsure where to start? This article explores some of the best REITs ETFs available in the market, offering investors an opportunity to diversify their portfolio and gain exposure to the real estate sector. Discover the top-performing funds and key factors to consider when selecting the right REITs ETF for your investment goals.

Overview of REITs and REITs ETFs

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) are investment vehicles that own and operate income-generating real estate properties. They provide investors with an opportunity to invest in real estate without directly owning the properties. REITs can offer diversification, income potential, and the possibility of capital appreciation. One way to gain exposure to a basket of REITs is through REITs Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs).

Comparing REITs ETFs: Vanguard Real Estate ETF (VNQ) vs. Schwab U.S. REIT ETF (SCHH)

When it comes to REITs ETFs, two popular options are the Vanguard Real Estate ETF (VNQ) and the Schwab U.S. REIT ETF (SCHH).

The Vanguard Real Estate ETF (VNQ) is one of the largest and most well-known REITs ETFs. It seeks to track the performance of the MSCI US Investable Market Real Estate 25/50 Index, which includes a diverse range of real estate investment trusts. VNQ has a low expense ratio and provides exposure to a broad selection of U.S. REITs.

On the other hand, the Schwab U.S. REIT ETF (SCHH) aims to track the performance of the Dow Jones U.S. Select REIT Index. SCHH also offers a diversified portfolio of U.S. REITs, but with a slightly lower expense ratio compared to VNQ.

Both VNQ and SCHH provide investors with exposure to the real estate sector, but there are slight differences in their underlying indexes and expense ratios. It's essential to consider these factors, along with your investment goals and risk tolerance, when choosing between the two ETFs.

VNQ overlap What are the best Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) ETFs?VNQ overlap What are the best Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) ETFs?

Are REITs ETFs suitable for long-term investment?

REITs ETFs can be suitable for long-term investment, especially for investors seeking exposure to the real estate sector and looking to diversify their portfolios. Investing in REITs ETFs can provide the benefits of liquidity, instant diversification, and lower investment thresholds compared to directly investing in individual REITs.

However, it's important to note that like any investment, REITs ETFs come with risks. Factors such as changes in interest rates, economic conditions, and real estate market fluctuations can impact the performance of REITs and, consequently, REITs ETFs. Therefore, investors should carefully assess their investment objectives, risk tolerance, and time horizon before making long-term investment decisions.

How to choose the right REITs ETF for your investment goals?

Choosing the right REITs ETF involves considering several factors. Here are some key considerations to help you make an informed decision:

Exposure and Diversification: Look for an ETF that provides exposure to a broad range of REITs across various sectors, such as residential, commercial, healthcare, or industrial. Diversification can help mitigate specific risks associated with a particular type of real estate.

Expense Ratio: Compare the expense ratios of different REITs ETFs. Lower expense ratios can enhance your overall investment returns over the long term.

Performance and Track Record: Evaluate the historical performance and track record of the ETF to gain insights into its consistency and ability to deliver returns.

Fund Size and Liquidity: Consider the fund size and liquidity of the ETF. Larger funds typically have higher liquidity, making it easier to buy or sell shares at competitive prices.

Remember, these considerations are just starting points, and it's essential to conduct thorough research and consult with a financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

Conclusion

REITs ETFs offer investors a convenient way to gain exposure to the real estate sector. Vanguard Real Estate ETF (VNQ) and Schwab U.S. REIT ETF (SCHH) are two popular options to consider, each with its own unique characteristics and underlying indexes. However, choosing the right REITs ETF requires careful consideration of factors such as exposure, expense ratios, performance, and liquidity.

It's important to conduct thorough research, consider your investment goals, and consult with a financial advisor before making any investment decisions. Remember, this article is for informational purposes only and is not providing any investment advisory services.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not providing any investment advisory services.

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FAQ

  • What are Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)?

    Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) are companies that own, operate, or finance income-generating real estate properties. They allow investors to invest in a diversified portfolio of real estate assets without directly owning or managing the properties.

  • What are REITs ETFs?

    REITs ETFs, or Real Estate Investment Trusts Exchange-Traded Funds, are investment funds that track the performance of a basket of REITs. These ETFs provide investors with exposure to the real estate sector and allow for diversification across multiple REITs within a single investment.

  • What factors should I consider when evaluating REITs ETFs?

    When evaluating REITs ETFs, you should consider factors such as the expense ratio, tracking error, underlying index methodology, diversification across property types and regions, liquidity, and historical performance. Additionally, you may want to assess the reputation and expertise of the ETF provider.

  • Can you provide some examples of top-performing REITs ETFs?

    While the performance of REITs ETFs can vary over time, some examples of top-performing REITs ETFs in the US as of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021 were the Vanguard Real Estate ETF (VNQ), Schwab US REIT ETF (SCHH), and iShares U.S. Real Estate ETF (IYR).

  • What are the advantages of investing in REITs ETFs?

    Investing in REITs ETFs offers several advantages, including diversification across a broad range of real estate assets, professional management, lower investment minimums compared to direct real estate investments, potential dividend income, and liquidity through trading on stock exchanges.