Real Estate Investment Trusts (i.e., REITs) look like a highly compelling sector to invest in right now for several reasons: As a result, some investors who are not otherwise familiar with the REIT sector may be tempted to simply buy the Vanguard Real Estate Index Fund ETF (NYSEARCA:VNQ). After all, it charges a very low 0.12% expense ratio, offers a decent 4.1% trailing twelve-month dividend yield, and is very well diversified with 163 holdings.