The problem with real estate as an investment is you have to maintain it, insure it and pay taxes on it every year.
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Another problem is liquidity. Selling off your assets to raise cash can be problematic.
However, if you invest in REITs they trade like stocks and are therefore very liquid. That said, if you have to sell shares during a market downturn you may take a loss. REITs also provide a predictable income stream without the hassles of dealing with delinquent renters.
I have done quite well on a total return basis with several REITs that I own.
Could you share which ones you like the most?