Synopses & Reviews

Publisher Comments:

The new Fourth Edition of the definitive handbook on investing in Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), which provide some of the best total returns in the investment world, along with above-average dividend yields and stable earnings, have become increasingly popular with both individual and institutional investors. Investing in REITs, Fourth Edition has established itself as the definitive guide to understanding this attractive asset class. The book is invaluable for investors, financial planners, and investment advisers interested in understanding REITs and REIT investment opportunities.

As their earnings and dividends are beginning to grow again after the Great Recessionand as they are in a unique position to take advantage of distressed sale opportunitiesnow is an excellent time for investors to consider REITs for both diversification and strong total returns. The new edition covers:

• A comprehensive history of the REIT industry
• How REITs compare with other competitive investments
• How to spot blue-chip REITs and control investment risk
• How to value individual REIT stocks, and REIT shares generally
• How to build a diversified REIT portfolio, directly or with REIT mutual funds
• Understanding the risk-and-reward dynamics of commercial real estate
• Assessing non-US REITs and how to invest in them

• Important new developments and strategies in the REIT industry

Author Ralph L. Block, who has been investing in REIT stocks for 40 years and is widely considered a leading authority on REITs, brings the historical success of Investing in REITs right up to date. This book is an essential read for both individuals and institutions who desire to invest in commercial real estate through REIT stocks.

Praise for Investing in REITs

A necessary starting tool for anyone interested in building a foundation in understanding the REIT market.

Steve Buller REIT Portfolio Manager, Fidelity Investments

REITs are a great investment idea as they provide a way for investors to gain exposure to an important asset class that is otherwise hard to access. The sector can, however, be daunting for the uninitiated, as it is filled with jargon, performance metrics, and valuation tools that are not typically employed elsewhere. Ralph Block has cut through the clutter and created a must-read road map for anyone investing in REITs.

Mike Kirby Cofounder, Green Street Advisors

A perfect blend of street talk and clear thinking that will provide the advice and knowledge that both first-time as well as seasoned REIT investors can benefit from.

Bryce Blair CEO & Chairman, AvalonBay Communities, Inc.

If you are a REIT investor, or are thinking of becoming one, Investing in REITs will unlock opportunities for you. Since its first publication in 1998, it remains a must-read for anyone interested in REITs. The first thing I did when I joined NHP in 2003 was read Ralph’s book and the best advice I can give you is to do the same.

Douglas M. Pasquale Chairman of the Board, President & CEO, Nationwide Health Properties, Inc.

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) are companies that invest directly in commercial real estate properties, but whose shares trade as stocks on the major exchanges. As the interest in REITs grows, so does the need for an in-depth, reliable, yet accessible resource for understanding these investments. The newly revised and updated Investing in REITs: Real Estate Investment Trusts, Fourth Edition does exactly that.

Widely considered the classic book on real estate investment trusts for the sophisticated investor, this new edition provides up-to-date information and discusses industry trends. Written by REIT investment pro Ralph L. Block, it looks at all the key developments and strategies that have taken place in the REIT industry over the last several years, presenting invaluable information and guidance on how to value individual REITs (as well as REIT shares generally), the risk-and-reward dynamics of commercial real estate, and how to spot blue-chip REITs and control investment risk. In addition, an entirely new chapter, written by industry veterans Kenneth Campbell and Steven Burton, looks at non-U.S. REITs and options for investing in them.

REIT investing has become increasingly popular in the aftermath of the real estate crisis. A liquid, dividend-paying way to participate in the real estate market, investing in REITs has a long track record of providing excellent investment returns. Their consistency, together with the low correlation of REIT stock prices with the prices of other asset classes, make such investments a unique opportunity.

An essential read for both individualsinvestors, financial planners, and investment advisorsand institutions interested in investing in commercial real estate through REIT stocks, Investing in REITs continues to set the bar for REIT information and advice.