Real Estate
From REITs to direct property — invest in real estate at any budget.
Real estate offers rental income and appreciation. You can invest through REITs (starting at $10), crowdfunding, or direct ownership.
Real Estate Options
How to Start
- REITs — Buy through brokerage like any stock
- Crowdfunding — Platforms like Fundrise, RealtyMogul
- Direct ownership — Buy rental property
⚠️ Real Estate Risks
Illiquid, requires research, market-dependent. REITs offer liquidity but track the stock market.
Risk Level: Medium
How vs Other Investments
Realestate Compares| Feature | REITs | Physical Property | Stocks | Bonds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Min capital | $1 (REIT) | $50k+ | $1 | $100 |
| Liquidity | High | Very Low | High | Medium |
| Management | None (REIT) | Hands-on | None | None |
| Avg return | ~8-12% | ~6-10% | ~10% | ~3-5% |
Historical Performance
REITs (Real Estate Investment Trusts) have returned about 8-12% per year on average, with dividends. Direct property appreciation has averaged about 6-10% historically but comes with high costs, illiquidity and management effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
REITs or physical property?
REITs give diversified, liquid exposure from $1 with no tenants to manage. Physical property offers control but needs large capital and hands-on work.
Are REITs safe?
REITs carry market and interest-rate risk (prices fall when rates rise) and can cut dividends in downturns. They are not guaranteed.
How much of my portfolio in real estate?
Many advisors suggest 5-15% in real assets, depending on goals and risk tolerance.
⚠️ Disclaimer
Figures above are historical/illustrative averages, not forecasts. Investment involves risk, including loss of principal. This page is educational and not financial advice.