What is a REIT and how to invest in one?

Why invest in a REIT?

Listed real estate allows anyone, from individual investors to large institutional investors, to gain access to the underlying assets of publicly traded companies by purchasing shares.

Owning shares in a REIT allows investors to earn a part of the income produced through the underlying “bricks and mortar” without directly owning and managing the property.

There are many other benefits to investing in REITs, including their regular income stream and special tax considerations. 

How to invest in REITs?

There are various ways for individuals and institutions to invest in REITs listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange. These include direct ownership of REIT shares, investing in property unit trust funds and through buying shares in a property index tracker fund. Your bank, stockbroker or financial advisor should assist you with the most suitable options for your financial position and goals.