How is a CREB bond different from a REIT?

October 27, 2026

Both give you exposure to real estate without buying property, but they're built differently.

REITs

A real estate investment trust (REIT) mostly owns income-producing properties. You own shares, so your return comes from dividends plus changes in share value. Publicly traded REIT prices move with the stock market, and dividends can be cut.

CREB bonds

CREB is a lender, not an owner. You hold a bond that pays a stated rate from interest on first-lien real estate loans and Treasuries. Your balance grows with daily credited interest rather than a market price.

What both share

Neither is FDIC insured, and both carry real estate and credit risk. Read the main risks of investing in CREB.

CREB bonds are investments, not bank deposits. They are not FDIC insured, and you could lose money, including principal.