REITs, or Real Estate Investment Trusts, were established by Congress in 1960 to give all investors, including those with pockets as shallow as a toddler’s piggy bank, access to income-producing real estate. This revolutionary approach combined the best attributes of real estate and stock-based investment, bringing the benefits of commercial real estate to regular Americans who previously had to settle for collecting pebbles in their backyard. But fret not, my friend, for the REIT model has come a long way since then, evolving and expanding across the globe like a virus (the good kind).

The Birth of REITs:

Let’s take a trip back in time to September 14, 1960, when President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed legislation that gave birth to a whole new era of real estate investment. This legislative masterpiece allowed REITs to operate and manage real estate, instead of just owning or financing it. Suddenly, investing in high-quality commercial real estate became a possibility for the masses, not just the fat cats and their golden wallets.

The Evolution of the REIT Model:

Since their inception, REITs have gone through some serious glow-ups. The original intent was to create an inclusive approach that would allow all Americans to enjoy the benefits of commercial real estate investment. And boy, has it delivered! Today, approximately 150 million Americans, or roughly 45% of American households, own REIT stocks directly or indirectly through various financial instruments. That’s right, even your grandma might be sitting on a golden egg in the form of a well-diversified REIT portfolio.

But the REIT revolution didn’t stop at the borders of the good ol’ US of A. Oh no, it spread like wildfire around the world, infecting 40 countries (including all the cool kids in the G-7 club) with its magic. The REIT regime has become a global phenomenon, offering investors from all corners of the globe a chance to have a slice of the income-producing real estate pie.

The Diversity and Inclusion Movement:

While REITs were busy changing the game in the real estate investment world, they also realized the importance of walking the talk when it comes to diversity and inclusion. The REIT industry is on a mission to become a more diverse and inclusive working environment, because let’s face it, a boardroom filled with old white men isn’t exactly the picture of progress. Efforts are underway to include more women and diverse voices in decision-making positions, and Nareit, the representative voice of REITs, is leading the charge with its Dividends Through Diversity & Inclusion (DDI) Initiative.

Why Invest in REITs:

So, why should you, my savvy reader, consider investing in REITs? Well, historically, REITs have delivered competitive total returns, thanks to their steady dividend income and the potential for long-term capital appreciation. They also dance to their own tune and have low correlation with other assets, making them a great addition to your investment portfolio. Plus, they give you access to the glamorous world of income-producing real estate, without the hassle of being a landlord or dealing with leaky pipes. It’s like owning your own piece of a swanky building, minus the maintenance nightmares.