Business Details
Your Trusted Resource for Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)
Nareit serves as the worldwide representative voice for real estate investment trusts (REITs) and publicly traded real estate companies with an interest in U.S. real estate and capital markets. Founded to promote the interests of REITs, the organization advocates for policy reforms that enhance the REIT structure while educating investors about the benefits of REIT-based real estate investment. Through extensive research, data analysis, and industry events, Nareit connects stakeholders across the global real estate ecosystem. The association provides authoritative market insights, maintains the REIT Directory for transparency, and hosts conferences like REITworld to facilitate networking and knowledge exchange.Nareit's advocacy efforts span federal, state, and international levels, ensuring REITs remain a cornerstone of real estate investment. The organization also supports sustainability initiatives and social responsibility programs through its foundation, fostering community development and affordable housing. With a membership comprising REITs, real estate companies, and service providers, Nareit drives industry growth while maintaining rigorous standards of governance and ethical conduct.
Services
Advocacy
Investor Education
Industry Research
REIT Directory
Conference Hosting
Policy Analysis
Sustainability Programs
Market Data Reporting
Global Expansion Support
Foundation Grants
Highlights and features
- We provide unparalleled advocacy for REITs at the highest levels of U.S. and international governments.
- Our research and data analysis deliver actionable insights into REIT market performance and trends.
- We host premier industry events like REITworld for networking and professional development.
- Our investor education programs empower informed decision-making for institutional and individual investors.
- We lead sustainability and social responsibility initiatives through the Nareit Foundation.
Services
Advocacy
Nareit actively advocates for REITs at federal, state, and international levels, shaping legislation and regulatory frameworks. The organization engages policymakers to preserve and enhance the REIT structure while addressing industry challenges. Through targeted campaigns, Nareit ensures REITs remain a vital component of real estate investment strategies globally.
Investor Education
Nareit educates institutional and individual investors about REIT benefits through research, webinars, and publications. The organization highlights REITs' competitive returns, diversification advantages, and income-generating potential. By demystifying real estate investment, Nareit empowers investors to make informed portfolio decisions aligned with long-term financial goals.
Industry Research
Nareit produces comprehensive market research, including the FTSE Nareit U.S. Real Estate Index Series. The organization tracks REIT performance, asset trends, and economic impacts, providing stakeholders with data-driven insights. This research informs investment strategies, policy debates, and industry best practices for sustainable growth.
REIT Directory
Nareit's REIT Directory offers a searchable database of member companies, including public and private REITs. The tool enables investors and professionals to explore REIT sectors, financial performance, and market data. By promoting transparency, the directory enhances trust and facilitates connections within the real estate investment community.
Conference Hosting
Nareit organizes conferences like REITworld, bringing together executives, investors, and analysts for networking and knowledge exchange. These events feature educational sessions on emerging trends, regulatory updates, and investment opportunities. By fostering dialogue, Nareit strengthens industry collaboration and drives innovation in real estate finance.
People
Steven A. Wechsler
President & CEO
Steven A. Wechsler leads Nareit with over 25 years of experience in real estate policy and advocacy. Prior to Nareit, he served as CEO of The Real Estate Roundtable and held leadership roles in government relations. Wechsler champions REITs as essential vehicles for democratizing real estate investment.
Cathy Barr
Executive Vice President, Policy & Public Affairs & General Counsel
Cathy Barr directs Nareit's policy strategy and legal affairs, leveraging her expertise in tax law and government relations. She previously held senior roles at the Senate Finance Committee and IRS. Barr advocates for regulatory reforms that strengthen REITs' role in global capital markets.
Matthew Bechard
Executive Vice President, Communications & Industry Affairs
Matthew Bechard oversees Nareit's communications and industry engagement, drawing on decades of experience in real estate journalism. He shapes narratives that highlight REITs' economic impact and investment benefits, ensuring clear messaging across media platforms to reach diverse stakeholders.
Roberto Diaz
Executive Vice President, Finance & Fiscal Management
Roberto Diaz manages Nareit's financial operations with a background in corporate finance and accounting. His prior roles at Marriott International inform his strategic approach to budgeting and fiscal governance, ensuring the organization's financial health supports its advocacy and educational missions.
Victor Dristas
Executive Vice President, Operations
Victor Dristas leads Nareit's operational infrastructure, including technology and human resources. With a career spanning Unisys and U.S. News & World Report, he ensures seamless logistics for Nareit's events, publications, and digital platforms that serve the REIT industry.
Questions
What is a REIT?
A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is a company that owns, operates, or finances income-producing real estate across sectors like offices, apartments, and data centers. REITs must distribute most of their taxable income as dividends to shareholders.
How do I invest in REITs?
Most REITs trade on major stock exchanges. You can invest through brokerage accounts, retirement plans, or mutual funds. Nareit's REIT Directory helps identify publicly traded options aligned with your investment goals.
What are the benefits of REITs?
REITs offer high dividend yields, portfolio diversification, and long-term capital appreciation. They provide liquidity compared to direct real estate ownership and are accessible to all investors.
How does Nareit support the REIT industry?
Nareit advocates for favorable policies, educates investors, and produces market research. The organization hosts events like REITworld and maintains resources to promote transparency and growth in the REIT sector.
What sustainability initiatives does Nareit lead?
Nareit's Leader in the Light Awards recognize REITs with exemplary sustainability practices. The Nareit Foundation funds affordable housing and community programs, aligning industry growth with social responsibility.
What data does Nareit provide?
Nareit offers the FTSE Nareit U.S. Real Estate Index Series, REIT market performance reports, and research on economic impacts. These resources help investors track trends and evaluate REIT investments.
