Why do some real estate investment trusts (REITs) have terrific dividend yields while others don't? Is there any reason not to invest in high-yield REITS? Well, yes.
If a yield looks too good to be true, it probably is. Remember that the market sets the price of the stock. And as a stock's price drops, its yield rises.
For perspective, consider that a 30-year U.S. Treasury bond is priced to yield nearly 5% because investors are pretty sure the dividend will be paid. But Russian government bond yields have hovered around 30% or more in recent years. Since investors are not so sure they'll end up being paid, they'll demand a higher yield before taking the chance.
The same goes for REITs, which are special kinds of corporations that own and manage real estate properties. As an example, consider Kranzco Realty Trust. Years ago, before merging with CV REIT and becoming KramontRealty Trust
If you invest in a REIT yielding 10%, things may well turn out hunky-dory (or not). But if you go for one kicking out 15% to 20%, you're buying into income streams that other folks find rather doubtful. You'll want to do enough research to be pretty sure you're right.
Learn more about REITs in these articles:
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