The stock market’s strong run over the past few years brought attention to high-flying growth stocks, usually from the technology sector, that were consistently outpacing the market. However, fresh volatility within the last two months has shifted the focus back towards other investment strategies, and now it might be time for investors to check out things like real estate investment trusts, or REITs.
REITs are companies that own, operate, or finance real estate properties that produce income, such as apartment complexes or retail locations. These companies are heavily regulated and must meet a number of qualifications to be classified as a REIT, but they do offer investors a few distinct advantages.
First of all, real estate can be a very profitable investment sector when certain economic conditions are present. What’s more, REITs must pay at least 90% of their taxable income in dividends to shareholders, so they are a great option for income investors looking for steady payouts.
Luckily for Zacks readers, the proven Zacks Rank—which emphasizes earnings estimates and estimate revisions—works with REITs just as it would with any other company. The strongest REITs are going to be those with improving outlooks and great Zacks Ranks.
With that said, check out the REITs that are model says are impressive options right now:
1. Extra Space Storage Inc. (EXR- Free Report)
Headquartered in Salt Lake City, Extra Space Storage is a self-managed REIT that owns and operates many self-storage properties, including boat storage, RV storage, and business storages units. The company is the second-largest owner of self-storage properties in the U.S.
EXT is currently holding a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). The company has witnessed eight positive earnings estimate revisions from analysts within the past 60 days, and its full-year Zacks Consensus Estimate for EPS has gained nine cents in that time. Meanwhile, the stock has surged 6% over the past month and is a hot momentum pick as it tests new 52-week highs.
