The real estate industry is constantly evolving and it is best to make strategic investment decisions. Investors can participate in the real estate market without owning real estate through Real Estate Investments (REITs). Making informed decisions would be aided by being aware of the benefits and drawbacks, as well as the chances and hazards.

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Land Republic is available to assist you every step of the way. Continue reading!

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Understanding Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)

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Definition and structure of REITs.

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) own, manage and finance real estate across various property sectors, to earn profits in return. They are usually open to investors who do not want to go through the hassle of buying and financing properties themselves, yet they have access to the income generated. REITs are open to the general public, meaning they pool funds from various investors to finance real estate investments. 

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Types of REITs 

There are three main types of REITs:

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• Equity REITs: These invest directly in properties, and income is generated from rent obtained from leasing properties. They own and operate real estate by renting office space, apartments, etc.

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• Mortgage REITs: These buy or create mortgages and mortgage-backed securities to finance real estate that generates revenue. The interest on these financial assets provides them with income.

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• Hybrid REITs: These combine both equity and mortgage strategies, generating income from rent and interest.

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REIT investments offer benefits and opportunities like diversification and a steady income without directly involving investors in property ownership and management. 

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The Landscape of REITs in Nigeria

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The Nigerian Real Estate market is quite vast with lots of potentials due to an increase in migration rates, urbanization, population growth, and rise in domestic consumption. The market keeps growing despite challenges, such as inadequate infrastructure and economic shifts, creating investment opportunities.

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Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) are a pool of money used to invest directly in real estate investments and securities that fund the buying or preserving properties. By getting capital from investors, these REITs acquire income-producing real estate assets that they maintain or operate, thus generating dividends for their shareholders as a main advantage.

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Nigeria has only a handful of established REITs, such as Union Homes REIT and Skye Shelter Fund REIT, in various property sectors, including residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments. REITs are monitored by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) according to certain guidelines that ensure a transparent, stable, and fair market.

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The regulatory framework makes REITs a rather safe investment option financially, which is quite appealing to someone trying to allocate their funds efficiently.

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Benefits of Investing in REITs

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There are several reasons for investing in real estate investment trusts:

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1. Diversification‍

Buying REITs allows you to diversify your investment in different properties, which has a lower risk than owning just one property. By investing in multiple deals, your returns are stabilized from one or two properties that may underperform.

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2. Income Generation‍

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An important advantage is being able to generate an income. A major portion of the income generated has to be distributed in the form of dividends (90% property rents or profit from sales) meaning investors receive income every year. So REITs provide steady dividends in more ways than one. 

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3. Liquidity‍

Another benefit of putting money into REITS is the liquidity that they provide. REITs, unlike actual properties themselves, are digitized and traded within a public exchange system, which means you can purchase or sell them as swiftly as stocks. This level of liquidity makes it easier for investors to get their hands back on their money when needed.

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4. Professional Management‍

This investment means your money is in professional management. Real estate professionals who have decades of experience in property acquisition, management, and maintenance manage REITs; hence, your investment is in safe hands.

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5. Accessibility‍

Unlike traditional, illiquid direct property investments that require tons of capital investment, with a REIT, you can invest in real estate for relatively small amounts, making it more accessible to broader investor interests.

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Opportunities in the Nigerian REIT Market

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The Nigerian REIT market offers promising opportunities due to several important factors:

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1. Growth potential:

The real estate sector in Nigeria has a lot of growth potential, due to the increase in urbanization - leading to high demand in commercial and residential homes. This rapid growth allows REITs to prosper and provide a steady income for investors.

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2. Urbanization and infrastructure development:

Urbanization has been a cause for increased real estate demands and infrastructural development, like airports, housing schemes, roads, etc. Investing in these areas through REITs would largely benefit investors. 

3. Inflation Hedge:

REITs can serve as a hedge against inflation. During inflation, the value of real estate is likely to increase, making REITs perform well. This indicates that investors are still able to earn during economic inflation.

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Risks Associated with Investing in REITs

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While investing in Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) is a highly beneficial strategy, it is important to know and understand the risks involved.

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1. Market Risk‍

The economy and market movements can affect the real estate market, making the industry quite volatile. These developments could affect property values and investor income.

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2. Economic Risks

During economic instability, the value of properties can drastically reduce, affecting potential returns on REITs. Economic downturns can lead to tenants defaulting on payment, impacting profitability.

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3. Regulatory Risks‍

Government policies majorly affect REIT operations. In cases where these policies are not exactly favourable, especially in cases of taxes or policy changes, investor returns can be affected. 

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4. Liquidity Risks‍

Economic or market downturns can make it hard to sell REIT shares or the property that they hold. Low liquidity can make it hard to pull out of these investments while still being able to sell at a favourable price.

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A real estate investor should know these risks to make wise investment decisions concerning REITs. 

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How to Invest in REITs in Nigeria

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You can make REIT investments in two ways. They are:

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• Direct Investment: You can start by setting up an active brokerage account and then buy REIT shares from the Nigerian Stock Exchange. You can also search for listed REITs on platforms like the Union Homes REIT.

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• Indirect Investment: Another option is investing in mutual funds or ETFs that include REITs. These funds gather money from several investors to buy different REIT shares, allowing for diversification and increased returns. 

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Steps to Get Started

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• Research on REITs and find one that aligns with your financial goals

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• Set up a valid brokerage account. You can employ the services of Land Republic to guide you. 

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• Be updated on your investments and relevant market trends. 

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Conclusion

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Investing in REITs is a strategy used by investors who want to access the benefits of real estate without being directly involved in the hassle it entails. While this strategy has several opportunities, it has its risks too. With professional advice from Land Republic, one of the top 50 Nigerian real estate companies, you can navigate the benefits of REITs.

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