
The National Association of Real Estate Investment Trusts (NAREIT) is a trade association that represents the interests of REITs and their stakeholders. It was founded in 1969 and is headquartered in Washington, D.C.
NAREIT has a long history of advocating for policies that support the growth and development of the REIT industry. The association has a global presence, with members from over 100 countries.
NAREIT provides a range of resources and information to help REITs and their investors make informed decisions. The association's website offers a wealth of data and research on the REIT industry.
What Is NAREIT?
NAREIT is a trade association that represents the interests of Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) and publicly-traded real estate companies.
It was established in 1960, a year after the creation of the REIT structure by the United States Congress.
NAREIT's primary purpose is to advocate for policies that benefit the REIT industry, promote best practices, and provide educational resources for investors and industry professionals.
The organization's mission is to advance the interests of REITs and real estate companies by fostering a business and regulatory environment that promotes responsible investment and growth.
NAREIT's objectives include promoting the benefits of REITs, providing a platform for industry networking, and offering education and research resources to investors and professionals.
NAREIT is based in Washington, D.C. and advocates on behalf of the REIT-based and real estate investment industry with investors and policymakers.
It publishes research and regularly holds educational events and conferences.
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Membership
NAREIT offers different types of memberships that cater to various needs and interests. Corporate members, for instance, are REITs and other real estate companies that can benefit from exclusive access to investors, increased visibility, and advocacy across all levels of government.
Individual members, on the other hand, are professionals in the industry, including stakeholders in the REIT industry, who can access investment research, member savings, and visibility enhancement.
NAREIT has over 1,200 members, with a diverse range of individual and corporate members.
To become a corporate member, a company must be REIT-based in the U.S., a REIT in a country with REIT legislation, or a listed real estate company.
Here are the different types of memberships offered by NAREIT:
NAREIT membership provides access to valuable resources, networking opportunities, and industry insights, making it a valuable asset for professionals in the real estate industry.
Functions and Structure
NAREIT's organizational structure is comprised of advisory committees, which are made up of member company representatives.
These committees provide guidance on various aspects of NAREIT's activities, shaping policies, educational programs, research initiatives, and advocacy efforts.
The committees are a key part of NAREIT's function, ensuring that the organization stays on track and meets its goals.
Functions of Nareit
NAREIT serves as a unified voice for REITs and publicly traded real estate companies, advocating for their interests and ensuring their representation in the broader real estate landscape.
One of the key roles of NAREIT is to educate investors and the public about the benefits of investing in REITs, promoting transparency, accountability, and best practices.
NAREIT helps build trust and confidence in the real estate investment sector, attracting more capital to the industry and leading to increased investment opportunities and growth for real estate businesses.
NAREIT engages with policymakers and advocates for favorable legislation, creating a conducive environment for real estate investment and driving economic growth and job creation.
The REIT structure promoted by NAREIT is instrumental in attracting both domestic and international investors to the real estate market.
NAREIT provides valuable research and industry insights through its publications, conferences, and educational programs, equipping real estate professionals with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the dynamic real estate landscape.
NAREIT regularly hosts webinars featuring industry experts who discuss current trends, challenges, and opportunities in the REIT industry, providing valuable insights and analysis for members.
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Structure
The structure of a system is like the framework of a house - it provides the foundation for everything else to work together seamlessly.

The three main components of a system's structure are inputs, processes, and outputs.
Inputs are the raw materials or information that a system uses to produce a product or service.
A well-designed input process ensures that the right data is collected and processed at the right time.
In a production system, inputs might include raw materials, labor, and energy.
Processes are the steps that a system takes to transform inputs into outputs.
The efficiency of a process can greatly impact the overall performance of a system.
In a service system, processes might involve tasks such as customer service, marketing, and sales.
Outputs are the products or services that a system produces as a result of processing inputs.
Effective output processes ensure that customers receive what they need in a timely and satisfactory manner.
Advisory Committees
NAREIT's advisory committees are made up of member company representatives who provide guidance on various aspects of the organization's activities.
These committees help shape NAREIT's policies, educational programs, research initiatives, and advocacy efforts.
Their input is invaluable in ensuring that NAREIT stays on track with its mission and goals.
By having a diverse group of experts on these committees, NAREIT can tap into their collective knowledge and experience to make informed decisions.
NAREIT's advisory committees are a key part of the organization's structure and play a crucial role in its success.
History of Nareit
Nareit was created to help smaller investors tap into the real estate market, something previously only available to large commercial entities. This was made possible by a law signed by President Dwight D. Eisenhower on September 14, 1960.
The National Association of Real Estate Investment Trusts was incorporated the very next day, September 15, 1960.
Research and Outreach
Nareit is a leading producer and sponsor of research, publications, and conferences on REIT investment. It publishes several publications, including a daily executive news summary, a bi-monthly magazine, and a monthly publication that provides a statistical look at the industry.
Nareit's publications cover a range of topics, from news and data to industry perspectives. The organization also compiles a group of indexes, which provide real-time and monthly updates on publicly-traded REITs, equity REITs, and mortgage REITs.
Here are some of the publications and indexes that Nareit offers:
- Real Estate Investment SmartBrief: a daily executive news summary
- REIT: Real Estate Investment Today: a bi-monthly magazine focused on the REIT approach to real estate investment
- REITWatch: a monthly publication that provides a statistical look at the industry
- Indexes: providing real-time and monthly updates on publicly-traded REITs, equity REITs, and mortgage REITs
Nareit also honors the achievements and contributions of its members and industry professionals through various awards, such as the Investor CARE Awards and the Leadership and Industry Achievement Awards.
Advocacy and Policy
NAREIT addresses key policy issues like taxation, financial regulations, and housing policies to shape policy debates and influence decision-making.
The organization produces whitepapers and policy briefs to inform policymakers, regulators, and industry stakeholders about the implications of various policy proposals and potential regulatory changes.
NAREIT plays a crucial role in representing the interests of REITs and real estate companies in Congress, advocating for favorable legislation and policies to ensure the industry can thrive and contribute to economic growth.
By working closely with regulatory agencies like the SEC and FINRA, NAREIT promotes regulations that support the growth and stability of the REIT industry while protecting investors.
NAREIT's advocacy efforts have a profound influence on the real estate investment landscape, shaping policies and regulations that encourage investment in REITs, foster industry growth, and provide individual investors with access to diversified real estate portfolios.
Nareit's Advocacy and Policy Role
NAREIT plays a crucial role in representing the interests of REITs and real estate companies in Congress, advocating for favorable legislation and policies to ensure the industry can thrive and contribute to economic growth.
NAREIT addresses key policy issues that impact the REIT industry, such as taxation, financial regulations, and housing policies, taking informed positions to shape policy debates and influence decision-making.
By producing whitepapers and policy briefs, NAREIT helps inform policymakers, regulators, and industry stakeholders about the implications of various policy proposals and potential regulatory changes.
NAREIT's advocacy, education, and research initiatives have a profound influence on the real estate investment landscape, shaping policies and regulations that encourage investment in REITs, foster industry growth, and provide individual investors with access to diversified real estate portfolios.
NAREIT works closely with regulatory agencies, such as the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), to promote regulations that support the growth and stability of the REIT industry while protecting investors.
NAREIT's advisory committees provide guidance on various aspects of the organization's activities, helping shape NAREIT's policies, educational programs, research initiatives, and advocacy efforts.
NAREIT provides legal representation and support for its members when necessary, protecting their interests in the courts and defending against potential lawsuits, navigating complex legal issues, and advocating for the rights of REITs.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Investment
Investing can be a double-edged sword, and understanding its advantages and disadvantages is crucial for making informed decisions.
Investing in advocacy and policy can lead to significant returns in the form of improved social outcomes and increased public awareness.
However, it can also be a time-consuming and resource-intensive process, requiring significant financial and human capital.
The potential for high returns makes investment in advocacy and policy a worthwhile consideration for organizations and individuals looking to drive positive change.
On the other hand, the unpredictability of policy outcomes and the risk of failed initiatives can make it a high-risk investment.
Investing in advocacy and policy can also lead to a sense of fulfillment and purpose, as individuals and organizations work towards creating a more just and equitable society.
However, it may not always be a financially lucrative endeavor, and returns may be measured in intangible outcomes rather than financial gains.
Ultimately, investing in advocacy and policy requires a thoughtful and strategic approach, considering both the potential benefits and drawbacks.
Disadvantages
Investing in REITs can be a complex and nuanced decision, and it's essential to consider the potential disadvantages.

Interest rate sensitivity can have a significant impact on REIT performance, particularly for mortgage REITs.
Market risk is another concern, as fluctuations in real estate markets can lead to losses.
Management risk is also a factor, as a REIT's management team may not make optimal investment or operational decisions, negatively impacting performance.
A poor management team can lead to subpar investment decisions, ultimately affecting the REIT's overall performance.
Industry Performance and Impact
The REIT industry's performance is closely monitored by NAREIT, which regularly publishes performance reports that provide valuable insights into the industry's trends and outlook. These reports help investors, analysts, and industry professionals make informed decisions.
NAREIT's performance reports offer a wealth of information on the REIT industry's performance, trends, and outlook. They are a valuable resource for anyone looking to stay up-to-date on the industry's developments.
The REIT industry, represented by NAREIT, also plays a significant role in contributing to economic growth and development. By facilitating investment in real estate assets, the industry helps drive job creation and supports local communities.
NAREIT regularly hosts webinars that feature industry experts discussing current trends, challenges, and opportunities in the REIT industry. These webinars provide valuable insights and analysis for members, helping them stay informed and make strategic decisions.
Investment Options
Real estate investment trusts (REITs) offer a range of investment options, allowing individuals to invest in properties without directly managing them.
REITs can be categorized into several types, including equity REITs, mortgage REITs, and hybrid REITs. Equity REITs focus on owning and managing income-generating properties, while mortgage REITs focus on lending money to real estate developers and property owners.
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Stocks vs.
Investors often choose a combination of stocks and REITs to diversify their portfolios, considering REITs as their primary exposure to the real estate market.
REITs are traded on the same exchanges as stocks, but they serve different purposes and are closer to an exchange-traded fund (ETF) than an individual company's stock.
Equity
Equity REITs are a great investment option for those who want to own income-producing properties.
These REITs primarily invest in and own properties like office buildings, shopping centers, and apartment complexes.
They generate income from rent collected from tenants, which is a stable source of cash flow.
Equity REITs also benefit from property appreciation, meaning their value increases over time as the properties grow in value.
Their value is driven by rental income growth, making them a solid choice for investors seeking steady returns.
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Mortgage
Investing in mortgage-backed securities can be a lucrative option, as they earn income from the interest on the mortgages they hold. Mortgage REITs are particularly well-suited for this type of investment.
Mortgage REITs invest in and own property mortgages, including mortgage-backed securities and mortgage loans. They can be more sensitive to interest rate changes, which may impact their risk-return profile.
These REITs typically earn income from the interest on the mortgages they hold, making them a unique investment option. Mortgage REITs can be a good choice for investors looking for a steady stream of income.
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Hybrid
Hybrid investment options combine different strategies to provide a balance of income and growth.
They can offer a diversified approach to investing, such as Hybrid REITs that own both income-producing properties and mortgage assets.
This diversified approach can provide a balance between the income generated from property rents and interest on mortgage investments.
Hybrid REITs can also provide a stable source of income, as they typically invest in income-producing properties and mortgage assets that generate regular cash flow.
By owning both income-producing properties and mortgage assets, Hybrid REITs can reduce risk and increase potential returns.
Publications and Recognition
The National Association of Real Estate Investment Trusts (NAREIT) has been a leading voice in the real estate industry for over 50 years. The organization has been recognized for its expertise and leadership in the field.
NAREIT has published a comprehensive guide to real estate investment trusts, which provides valuable insights and information for investors and industry professionals. This guide has been widely praised for its clarity and usefulness.
The association has also been recognized for its commitment to transparency and accountability, with many of its members adhering to strict standards of disclosure and governance.
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Publications
Nareit produces a variety of publications to keep its members and the public informed about the REIT industry. The association's primary communications tool is its website, reit.com.
Nareit's bi-monthly magazine, REIT: Real Estate Investment Today, focuses on the REIT approach. The magazine is a valuable resource for those looking to learn more about the industry.
In addition to the magazine, Nareit publishes a daily executive news summary called Real Estate Investment SmartBrief. This summary provides up-to-date information on the latest industry news.
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Nareit also publishes several member newsletters and a weekly REIT Report podcast. These resources offer a range of perspectives and insights on the REIT industry.
Nareit compiles a group of indexes that are composed exclusively of publicly traded REITs. These indexes are used to track the performance of the REIT industry.
Here are some of the top indexes compiled by Nareit:
- The FTSE Nareit All REITs Index – This index includes all publicly traded REITs in relative market weightings.
- FTSE Nareit Equity REIT Index – This index excludes mortgage REITs and has the same data as the Nareit Index.
- FTSE Nareit Mortgage REIT Index – This index includes all publicly traded mortgage REITs.
Awards
Nareit gives an award every year, which includes the Industry Leadership Award, Industry Achievement Award, Leader in the Light Awards, Small Investor Empowerment Award, and Investor Care Awards.
These awards recognize outstanding achievements in the real estate industry, highlighting the importance of leadership, innovation, and care for investors.
The Industry Leadership Award and Industry Achievement Award are two of the most prestigious awards given by Nareit, acknowledging exceptional leadership and achievement in the industry.
The Leader in the Light Awards, Small Investor Empowerment Award, and Investor Care Awards also play a significant role in recognizing excellence in various areas, showcasing the industry's commitment to sustainability, investor empowerment, and care.
These awards not only celebrate individual and company achievements but also set a high standard for the industry as a whole, inspiring others to strive for excellence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a disadvantage of REITs?
One disadvantage of REITs is their sensitivity to interest rate changes, which can impact their value. Additionally, REITs may also come with tax consequences and potential legal or ethical challenges.
What is the 90% rule for REITs?
To qualify as a REIT, companies must distribute at least 90% of their taxable income to shareholders annually in the form of dividends. This 90% rule ensures REITs prioritize shareholder returns over corporate profits.
Sources
- https://www.investopedia.com/terms/n/nareit.asp
- https://www.larksuite.com/en_us/topics/realestate-glossary/nareit-national-association-of-real-estate-investment-trusts
- https://www.financestrategists.com/wealth-management/real-estate-investing/national-association-of-real-estate-investment-trusts-nareit/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Association_of_Real_Estate_Investment_Trusts
- https://www.areuea.org/116
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