What is the outlook going forward for the quality REIT's mainly the (preferred stocks) in the apartment and healthcare sectors? As the EURO gains against the dollar would the muti-national food companies be a good long term investment? Regards.

-- Stephen Twiss (stwiss@gate.net), April 23, 2001

Answers

quality dividend paying reits can be a good investment but watch the leverage closely. many reits have too much debt and have been awash in capital for years, allowing marginal projects to be taken on. reits have also been used as a consolidation vehicle, anti- competitive, in many industries, for example the cold storage, fruits and vegetables, business.

well diversified food companies could be good; however, watch closely for integrity in management.

-- Bill Parish (bill@billparish.com), April 24, 2001.