Real estate investment trusts (REITs) remain a strong inflation hedge for retirees needing income, with three standout ETFs offering different approaches. The iShares Core U.S. REIT ETF (USRT) provides broad, low-cost exposure with a 3% yield but lower income potential due to diversification. The iShares Residential and Multisector Real Estate ETF (REZ) focuses on residential and healthcare properties tied closely to inflation but offers a lower 2.4% yield and higher concentration risk. Columbia's Research Enhanced Real Estate ETF (CRED) targets higher-yielding REITs with a 3.8% dividend but has a shorter track record and smaller asset base, increasing risk. Retirees should balance yield preferences, diversification, and fund stability when choosing among these options.
