REIT Investing: How to Use the Best REIT Apps

 REIT Investing: How to Use the Best REIT Apps

"Invest in real estate from your phone with top REIT apps for 2025."

What is REIT Investing?

REIT Meaning Simplified

REIT stands for Real Estate Investment Trust. It’s a company that owns, operates, or finances income-producing real estate. By investing in a REIT, you can earn a share of the income generated without buying or managing property yourself.

REITs are popular for passive income because they often pay high dividends and allow small investors to access real estate markets with low capital.

Why Choose REITs for Passive Income?

Steady and Reliable Returns

REITs are known for their consistent dividend payouts. By law, most REITs must distribute at least 90% of their taxable income to shareholders. That makes them a solid choice for income-focused investors.

Plus, they’re less volatile than tech or growth stocks, making them a good option for balanced portfolios.

Benefits of Using REIT Investing Apps

Simple and Convenient Investing

Using REIT apps allows you to start investing in real estate right from your smartphone. These apps give you access to different types of REITs—public, private, or hybrid—and let you track performance in real time.

With REIT apps, you can:

Invest with small amounts (as low as $10)

Diversify across properties and sectors

Earn passive income

Reinvest dividends automatically

Top Features to Look for in a REIT App

What Makes a REIT App Great?

Before choosing a REIT investing app, look for these features:

Low or no fees

Automatic dividend reinvestment

Access to multiple REIT options

User-friendly interface

Real-time performance tracking

Educational tools and resources

Best REIT Investing Apps in 2025

Modern Apps to Build Real Estate Wealth

Here are some of the most trusted and beginner-friendly REIT investing apps in 2025:

1. Fundrise

Invest in Private Real Estate Projects

Fundrise is a leader in private REIT investing. It lets users invest in real estate portfolios of commercial and residential properties. With as little as $10, you can start earning passive income through dividends and long-term property appreciation.

2. RealtyMogul

Flexible REIT and Property Investment

RealtyMogul offers both REITs and direct investment in specific properties. It provides a mix of residential and commercial real estate opportunities. The platform is perfect for investors who want more control over their real estate picks.

3. Stash

All-in-One Investment App

Stash offers REIT ETFs as part of its broader investment options. It’s great for beginners looking to diversify their portfolios. You can invest in real estate along with stocks, bonds, and more—all in one app.

4. Robinhood

REIT ETFs with No Commission

Robinhood provides access to a wide range of REIT ETFs with zero commission. It’s easy to use and great for those who want to trade REITs like stocks. You can track performance, read news, and manage your entire portfolio with ease.

5. M1 Finance

Automated REIT Portfolio Building

M1 Finance allows you to build a custom portfolio (“Pie”) with REITs and automatically invest in them over time. It’s ideal for long-term investors who want hands-free investing with automated rebalancing and dividend reinvestment.

Types of REITs to Invest In

Know the REIT Categories

There are different types of REITs you can explore:

Equity REITs – Invest in income-producing properties like apartments, malls, or office buildings.

Mortgage REITs (mREITs) – Invest in real estate debt (loans and mortgages).

Hybrid REITs – Combine both property ownership and real estate debt.

You can choose based on your risk tolerance and investment goals.

How to Start REIT Investing on an App

Quick Steps for Beginners

1. Download a trusted REIT app from the list above.

2. Create an account and verify your identity.

3. Deposit funds using your bank or card.

4. Choose your REIT or REIT ETF.

5. Start investing with the amount you’re comfortable with.

6. Track and reinvest your dividends over time.

REIT Investing Strategy Tips

Smart Ways to Grow Your Money

Diversify across sectors – Invest in healthcare, retail, industrial, and residential REITs.

Reinvest dividends – Grow your investment faster by compounding your earnings.

Start with small amounts – Get familiar with the app before investing more.

Focus on long-term growth – REITs perform better over long horizons.

Risks of REIT Investing You Should Know

Be Informed Before You Invest

Like all investments, REITs come with risks:

Interest rate sensitivity – Higher interest rates may reduce REIT value.

Market volatility – Real estate sectors can face downturns.

Dividend taxes – Dividends from REITs are usually taxed as ordinary income.

Knowing these risks helps you make better, smarter decisions.