As of late, my mid-afternoon ritual includes going downstairs to the nearest coffee shop for an extra-hot, tall latte with sugar-free vanilla flavoring. It may not be what you or some of my coworkers would order, but to me, its the perfect pick-me-up.
These stores offer more options than you probably thought possible, such as flavor shots, skim milk, whole milk and whip cream in a tall, medium or large drink. The combinations seem endless.
Coffee is just one example of the custom-made universe that encompasses us. You can now custom order your car, business suits and even golf clubs with features that produce a product that is perfectly tailored to fit your personal needs.
Bringing that concept of personalization into your portfolio, there are several ways you can fit real estate into your investment. By using publicly traded REITs, ETFs, direct investment or commingled funds, you can find the real estate option that works best for your risk and return expectations. For more on finding which real estate investing is right for you, see Choices, Choices, Choices.
Turning Pages
Speaking of choices, there is one REIT that recently chose to look into a new type of development. Regency Centers Corporation has teamed with the United States Green Building Council (USGBC), to create sustainable shopping centers. In fact, the company will obtain LEED certification for 20 percent of its new developments in 2008. Its first project, Shops on Main, is slated to open in May 2009. To read more, see In the Works.
Turning to recent developments in the industry, it is by now a well-known fact that real estate funds weathered a storm in 2007. However, the good news is that the storm will pass. Despite the whisperings of hard times ahead, there is some light at the end of the dark tunnel. Investors should take note of the consistent long-term performance of real estate, which include delivering performance, stability and portfolio diversification. To read more, see Down, But Not Out.
Erin Corcoran
Managing Editor
Made to Order