IMO- the way to trade REITS is to match their yields with those on the risk-free securities. When REITS are yielding at least 4% higher than risk-free rate, its'a good time to get in. Back in 2001, the REITS yielded close to 6-8% and risk-free rate was 1-2%. Now the gap is a lot smaller and in some cases non-existent.
Are REITs Really a Bargain? [View article]