The Top 2 REITs for Dividend-Growth Investors

Are you a dividend-growth investor? If so, Canadian REIT (TSX:REF.UN) or Plaza Retail REIT (TSX:PLZ.UN) belong in your portfolio.

| More on:
The Motley Fool

If you’re a dividend-growth investor and are a fan of the high yields and monthly income that real estate investment trusts offer, then I’ve come across two stocks you will absolutely love. Let’s take a quick look at each to determine which belongs in your portfolio.

1. Canadian REIT

Canadian REIT (TSX:REF.UN) is one of the largest owners of commercial real estate in North America with a diversified portfolio of 198 retail, industrial, and office properties that total approximately 33 million square feet. It pays a monthly distribution of $0.15 per share, or $1.80 per share annually, which gives its stock a yield of approximately 4.6% at today’s levels.

Investors must also note that Canadian REIT has raised its annual distribution for 14 consecutive years, giving it the longest active streak for a public REIT in Canada, and its 2.9% increase in June 2015 has it on pace for 2016 to mark the 15th consecutive year with an increase.

2. Plaza Retail REIT

Plaza Retail REIT (TSX:PLZ.UN) is one of the largest developers and owners of retail properties in Canada with 306 properties in eight provinces that total approximately seven million square feet. It pays a monthly distribution of $0.02167 per share, or $0.26 per share annually, which gives its stock a yield of approximately 5.9% at today’s levels.

Investors must also note that Plaza Retail has raised its annual distribution for 12 consecutive years, giving it the second-longest active streak for a public REIT in Canada, and its 4% increase that took effect in January has it on pace for 2016 to mark the 13th consecutive year with an increase.

Which of these REITs belongs in your portfolio?

Canadian REIT and Plaza Retail REIT are the top dividend-growth stocks in the real estate investment trust industry today. All Foolish investors should take a closer look and strongly consider making one of them a core holding.

Fool contributor Joseph Solitro has no position in any stocks mentioned.

More on Dividend Stocks

A woman stands on an apartment balcony in a city
Dividend Stocks

How to Rebalance Your Portfolio for 2026

There are plenty of to-dos for investors before the year ends and 2026 starts. One thing to not forget is…

Read more »

Asset Management
Dividend Stocks

3 of the Best Dividend Stocks to Buy for Long-Term Passive Income

These three stocks consistently grow their profitability and dividends, making them three of the best to buy now for passive…

Read more »

container trucks and cargo planes are part of global logistics system
Dividend Stocks

Down 32%, This Passive Income Stock Still Looks Like a Buy

A beaten‑up freight leader with a rising dividend, why TFII could reward patient TFSA investors when the cycle turns.

Read more »

monthly calendar with clock
Dividend Stocks

Invest $20,000 in This Dividend Stock for $104 in Monthly Passive Income

Here is a closer look at a top Canadian monthly dividend stock that can turn everyday retail demand into reliable…

Read more »

man looks surprised at investment growth
Dividend Stocks

This 7.5% TSX Dividend Stock Slashed its Payout by 50% in 2025: Is it Finally a Good Buy?

Down more than 30% in 2025, this TSX dividend stock offers you a forward yield of 7.4%, which is quite…

Read more »

c
Dividend Stocks

1 Canadian Stock to Buy Today and Hold Forever

Trash never takes a day off. Here’s why Waste Connections’ essential, low‑drama business can power a TFSA for decades despite…

Read more »

Forklift in a warehouse
Dividend Stocks

Retiring in Canada: Build $1,000 a Month in Dividend Income

Granite REIT’s warehouses generate steady monthly cash, and rising cash flow and occupancy show why it can anchor a TFSA…

Read more »

data analyze research
Dividend Stocks

2 Canadian Dividend Giants to Buy and Never Sell

Here's why Great‑West and TELUS can power a TFSA with steady cash and decade‑long compounding.

Read more »