Real Estate Investment Funds: What They Are, How They Work, and the Top 20 in 2026

August 18, 2025

Real estate investment funds emerged and quickly became an attractive option for those looking to enter the real estate market without the challenges and risks associated with direct ownership. In today’s article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about them. If this is something you’ve been thinking about, you’ll gain an understanding of everything from how they work and the best options available to the investment process itself.

Before you continue reading, I recommend that you read about what the real estate market is

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What are real estate investment funds?

Before defining what a real estate investment fund is, we should first define what an investment fund is. An investment fund is a financial vehicle designed to pool money from multiple investors and use those funds to invest in a diversified portfolio of financial assets, such as stocks, bonds, securities, investment properties, or other instruments.

Real estate investment funds are characterized by their focus on real estate assets and related activities. Fund managers use investors’ capital to acquire properties such as residential homes, offices, or commercial buildings, with the aim of generating long-term returns through rental income, for example. 

Recommended article:Real Estate Investment in Spain

Pros and cons

Real estate investments are well known for their high returns, steady growth, and versatility, but it’s not all upside in this field—there are also drawbacks. If you want to know what the advantages and disadvantages are, keep reading.

Advantages

•Real estate funds often benefit from steady market demand. The need for housing, offices, retail spaces, and other types of properties is typically long-lasting, as people and businesses always need places to live and work. This ongoing demand can provide a steady source of income for investors.

•The real estate market tends to be more predictable than other financial markets. The extreme price fluctuations seen in stock markets, for example, are generally less common in the real estate market. •This provides investors with a greater sense of stability and security in their investments.

•Market changes and trends can present opportunities for investors who are willing to adapt. For example, technological advancements and the rise of the online commercial real estate market have led to changes in how real estate investments are managed.

•Real estate is a physical asset, which means that investors can own an actual piece of land or a building. This tangibility often provides a comforting sense of security and ownership. 

•Real estate investment funds, which operate on a large scale, can have a significant impact on the market. This allows them to negotiate better terms, access opportunities that might not be available to individual investors, and benefit from economies of scale, thereby increasing the potential return on investment.

Learn more about taxes on the sale of a home by clicking the link.

Disadvantages

•This type of profitable investment can often be challenging for those who are not familiar with the real estate market. Assessing the quality of the real estate assets in which the fund invests, understanding financial reports, and selecting suitable funds typically requires a level of knowledge and experience that not all investors possess.

•Real estate funds tend to be less liquid than other types of investments, such as stocks. This lack of liquidity means that transactions can be time-consuming; selling shares in a real estate fund and receiving the corresponding cash can take some time. 

•The management of a real estate fund is the responsibility of a management company, and investors must trust that this entity will make sound decisions in their best interest. Mismanagement or conflicts of interest on the part of the management company can negatively impact the fund’s performance and, consequently, the investors’ returns. 

How do real estate investment funds work?

•An accessible way to enter the world of real estate investing without requiring a substantial investment is by purchasing shares in real estate investment funds. Each fund manager sets a price based on the type of fund and the project.

•These funds operate on the same principle as traditional mutual funds. They are established through contributions from a group of participants, who may be either individuals or legal entities. Management is handled by a management company, which receives a fee for its services. 

•The accumulated assets are invested in the real estate sector with the aim of generating future returns. The management companies are typically firms with extensive experience in the real estate industry. Thanks to their knowledge of the market and its fluctuations, they can manage the assets efficiently to maximize returns on investment for the benefit of investors.

•These investments encompass a wide range of real estate assets, from project development to the acquisition of debt securities or existing properties, such as shopping centers, hospitals, and commercial buildings.

•It can take months, or even years, to recoup your investment, since building, selling, or renting a property is a lengthy process involving a great deal of paperwork and bureaucratic delays.

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Types of real estate investment funds

Real estate investment funds encompass a variety of approaches and strategies designed to meet the needs and preferences of investors. Some of these types include:

Real estate investment trusts (REITs)

These funds invest in shares of publicly traded real estate companies. REITs offer a liquid way to invest in the real estate sector, as they are traded on stock exchanges. 

Direct real estate investment funds

These funds acquire and manage real estate properties directly, such as office buildings, apartments, shopping centers, or industrial properties. Investors in these funds own a proportional share of the underlying properties and generate income through rent and potential sales.

Real estate development funds

These funds focus on financing the development of new real estate projects. They invest in land acquisition, building construction, and property development. Profits are generated as the project is completed and the units are sold or leased.

Real estate debt funds

In this category, investors invest in real estate-backed loans rather than purchasing properties directly. Investors receive income from the interest paid by borrowers.

Real estate venture capital funds

These funds focus on more speculative or higher-risk investments, such as investing in emerging markets. Investors in these funds seek high-return opportunities, but they are also exposed to greater risks.

Global or international funds: Global funds invest in real estate across different countries or regions of the world, offering investors the opportunity to diversify their portfolios internationally. This feature helps mitigate the risk associated with geographic concentration.

Sector-specific funds

Some funds specialize in a particular sector of the real estate market, such as the healthcare sector (investments in hospitals and clinics), industrial real estate (warehouses and factories), or commercial real estate (shopping centers and offices). This segmentation makes it easier to understand the market in which they operate.

Characteristics of a real estate investment fund

REITs are financial instruments that allow investors to gain exposure to the real estate market in a diversified manner, without having to purchase properties directly. This is just one of their many features; the others include:

•As mentioned earlier, they typically have a diversified portfolio of assets, which may include commercial, residential, and industrial properties, land, and more.

•Access to a variety of real estate investments that might otherwise be out of reach for investors with limited capital. This includes large-scale projects, such as shopping centers or major real estate developments.

•They are managed by professionals with experience in the real estate market. 

•They typically have limited liquidity compared to stocks or bonds. 

•The rental income generated by the properties in the portfolio is distributed periodically to investors in the form of dividends. 

•Regular reports should be prepared detailing the fund’s performance, assets under management, income generated, and other relevant information. Transparency is essential.

•Although they diversify risk, real estate funds are exposed to fluctuations in the real estate market, such as changes in property prices and economic cycles.

Best real estate investment funds

Determining which real estate investment funds are the best depends on several factors and can vary depending on the investor’s individual goals and preferences. Here are some criteria and considerations that can help you decide which real estate investment fund is best for you:

  • It is essential to analyze the fund's performance history over time. 
  • Assess the fund's portfolio diversification. The best funds typically have a diversified portfolio of properties.
  • Investigate the management company's experience and track record.
  • Understand the fees associated with the fund, such as management fees and commissions. 
  • Assess the fund's liquidity. How long would it take to recoup your investment if you wanted to sell your shares? 
  • Assess your own risk tolerance and the level of risk associated with the fund. 
  • Set your investment goals.
  • Ensure that the fund provides investors with adequate information and transparency. 
  • Research the reputation of the management company and look for reviews and feedback from other investors. 
  • Consider your investment horizon. Real estate funds are often long-term investments, so it’s important to have a long-term investment strategy.

Now that we’ve clarified this and you have a clearer picture of what makes an investment fund the right choice or not, we’ll briefly list the best real estate investment funds, according to Rankia, the leading Spanish-speaking financial community:

DWS Invest Global Real Estate Securities 

YTD Return: 3.85%

3-Year Yield: 4.10%

Operating expenses: 0.75%

GVC Gaesco Opportunity Real Estate Companies R.V. A FI

YTD Return: 2.44%

3-Year Yield: 0.05%

Operating expenses: 2.25%

Morgan Stanley Investment Funds 

YTD Return: 1.11%

3-Year Return: 8.17%

Current expenditures: 1.4%

JPMorgan Funds - Global Real Estate Securities Fund (USD) Class A (acc) - EUR (hedged)

YTD Return: 0.13%

3-Year Return: -0.79%

Operating expenses: 1.5%

YTD refers to the return from the beginning of the current year to the present date. The article was published in August 2023.

How to Invest in Real Estate Investment Funds: A Step-by-Step Guide

Although this type of investment strategy may sound very appealing to those who want to start investing, who don’t have a lot of capital, or who are simply very cautious, it’s not as simple as it sounds. That’s why it’s crucial to understand the process step by step and consider all the factors. Here’s a quick and concise guide on how to invest in mutual funds:

1- Before investing, determine your financial goals and your risk tolerance. Are you looking for regular income, capital appreciation, or a combination of both? Also consider how long you can hold onto your investment.

2- Research the various real estate investment funds available on the market. Consider all the points mentioned in the previous section of this article.

3- Now that you've decided on a fund, you need an investment account. You can open this account through a bank, a financial institution, a brokerage firm, or an online platform. 

4- Once you have an interest-bearing investment account, you need to fund it. Transfer funds from your bank account to your investment account. Make sure you have the money you need and will need available.

5- Next, select the real estate investment fund you wish to invest in. Enter the amount you wish to invest and purchase units or shares in the fund. The minimum investment amount varies by fund.

6- Before confirming the transaction, carefully review the details, such as the amount invested, any associated fees, and any other relevant information. Make sure you are fully informed before clicking "Confirm."

7- Once you have invested in the fund, monitor its performance regularly. You can do this using reports provided by the fund management company or through the online investment platform of your choice. 

8- If you're not sure how to invest or need specific guidance tailored to your financial situation, consider consulting a financial advisor. Options range from independent professionals to user-friendly platforms like Domoblock, which specializes in these areas and real estate crowdfunding.

9. Keep reviewing and adjusting your investment strategy based on your changing goals and market conditions. 

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What kind of return does a real estate fund offer?

The return on a real estate fund can vary significantly depending on the factors you consider. This is because returns can come from various sources; some of the main ones are:

Rental income

A significant portion of real estate funds’ returns comes from the steady passive income generated by renting out the properties in their portfolio. Tenants pay rent, and that income is distributed among the fund’s investors.

Appraisal of property value

As the properties in the fund appreciate in value over time, the value of investors' shares may also increase. 

Capital gains distributions

When the fund sells a property and realizes a profit, that profit is distributed among the investors. 

Loan interest (on real estate debt funds)

Investors earn income from the interest paid by borrowers who have taken out loans secured by real estate.

The actual return on a real estate fund will depend on the combination of these sources and how the fund is managed. 

Taxation of Real Estate Investment Funds

The taxation of real estate investment funds (FIIs) in Spain is governed by tax law and may vary depending on the type of fund and the investor’s tax status. Below are the most important points:

Individual Income Tax (IRPF)

Income earned through real estate investment funds is considered real estate capital gains. Investors are subject to a flat tax rate that varies depending on the holding period. For example, if you hold your investment for more than one year, the tax rate is generally lower than if you hold it for a shorter period.

Wealth Tax

Investors must report their holdings in real estate investment funds on their net worth declaration if they exceed certain thresholds set by the tax authorities.

Corporate Income Tax (for institutional investors)

Companies and other legal entities that invest in real estate investment funds are subject to corporate income tax. They must pay tax on the income they earn in accordance with applicable tax laws.

Municipal Capital Gains Tax

When shares in real estate investment funds are sold, a tax on the increase in the value of urban land (known as the municipal capital gains tax) may apply. Rates and regulations vary by municipality.

Income Tax Return

Investors must report their holdings in real estate investment funds located abroad if they exceed certain thresholds. This is done using Form 720.

How are the return and profitability of a real estate investment calculated?

The performance and profitability of a real estate investment can be calculated in several ways, depending on the investor’s specific goals and the available data. Here are some common methods for calculating both:

Return on a Real Estate Investment

The return on a real estate investment generally refers to the total profit earned from the investment, expressed as a percentage. It can be calculated in several ways:

a. Return on Investment (ROI)

ROI calculates the net profit generated by the investment relative to the initial cost of the investment. The formula is:

ROI = (Net Profit / Initial Investment Cost) × 100\text{ROI} = \left( \frac{\text{Net Profit}}{\text{Initial Investment Cost}} \right) \times 100ROI=(Initial Investment Cost – Net Profit) × 100

Where:

  • Net Income: Net revenue generated by the property (revenue minus operating expenses and other costs).
  • Initial Investment Cost: Includes the purchase price of the property, closing costs, improvements, and other initial expenses.

b. Cash-on-Cash Return

This method compares the amount of cash generated by the property to the amount of cash initially invested. The formula is:

Cash-on-Cash Return = (Net Cash Flow / Initial Cash Investment)×100\text{Cash on Cash Return} = \left( \frac{\text{Net Cash Income}}{\text{Initial Cash Investment}} \right) \times 100Cash on Cash Return=(Initial Cash Investment - Net Cash Income)×100

Where:

  • Net Cash Revenue: Net revenue after operating expenses and provisions for vacancies and maintenance.
  • Initial Cash Investment: The initial amount of cash invested in the property.

Return on a Real Estate Investment

The return on a real estate investment refers to the profit or income generated by the property relative to its market value or initial value. Some common metrics include:

a. Gross Profit

Gross yield calculates the gross income generated by the property relative to its market value. The formula is:

Gross Yield = (Annual Gross Income / Property Market Value) × 100\text{Gross Yield} = \left( \frac{\text{Annual Gross Income}}{\text{Property Market Value}} \right) \times 100Gross Yield =(Market Value of the Property – Annual Gross Income) × 100

Where:

  • Annual Gross Income: Total income before deducting expenses.
  • Market Value of the Property: The current market value of the property.

b. Net Profitability

Net profitability takes into account operating expenses and other costs to calculate the net income generated by the property. The formula is:

Net Yield = (Annual Net Income / Property Market Value) × 100\text{Net Yield} = \left( \frac{\text{Annual Net Income}}{\text{Property Market Value}} \right) \times 100Net Yield =(Market Value of the Property – Annual Net Income) × 100

Where:

  • Annual Net Income: Revenue after deducting all operating expenses (maintenance, taxes, insurance, management, etc.).
  • Market Value of the Property: The current market value of the property.

Additional Considerations

  • Calculation Frequency: Determines whether calculations are performed annually, monthly, quarterly, etc., based on the frequency of income and expenses.
  • Comparison with Other Assets: It is useful to compare the performance and returns of real estate investments with those of other asset classes to assess their relative appeal and adjust the investment strategy as needed.

These methods offer different perspectives on how to evaluate the performance and profitability of a real estate investment, helping investors make informed decisions and manage their portfolios effectively.

Looking to make a profitable investment on a tight budget? Try Domoblock

The various advantages of investing in real estate through funds are abundantly clear, but what if we add tokenization to the mix? Real estate tokenization can be explained as the division of a physical asset into small digital shares. Ownership of these tokens grants investors an economic right in the form of a share of profits, derived from the property’s appreciation or the cash flows generated through its leasing. Read about governance tokens.

At Domoblock, we’ve chosen to operate this way because it allows our clients to enjoy benefits such as: 

  • If you're a small investor, you can invest with as little as €200
  • If you're a professional, diversify your portfolio across multiple projects
  • Quickly convert your shares into cash
  • Reduction in operating costs
  • Increased profitability

Believe it or not, that's not all. Since we understand that getting started in this world can be complicated and even a little daunting, we have a very intuitive platform that will help you get started by following the 5 steps you'll find on our website

To learn more, click HERE.

Conclusion

Real estate investment funds, with their ability to make the real estate market more accessible to a wider range of investors, remain a powerful tool for investors of all experience levels. 

In 2023, the wide range of options available and the potential for profitability remain attractive. With a solid understanding of how the market works and the options available, investors can grow their income and contribute to the economy. Learn everything you need to know about investing in real estate so you’re fully prepared by reading this article and clicking the link above to continue learning.

And if you're interested in other types of investments, keep reading: Investing in startups and investing in gold and silver

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Sergio Navarro

Expert in blockchain, investments, and personal finance

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