EPR Properties (EPR) is a long-term holding; the stock has been on our recommended list since November 2014, observes income expert Tim Plaehn, editor of The Dividend Hunter.
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Over that period, the REIT has provided a great return to investors. Since it was first recommended EPR has generated 18.1% in cash dividend earnings and a 47.3% total return.
EPR Properties owns movie theater complexes, private and charter school properties, and golf and ski recreation facilities.
Currently the company is developing a casino and other recreation facilities on a property it owns in the New York Catskill mountains.
Earlier this year, EPR closed the acquisition of CNL Lifestyle Properties. The purchase added 14 mountain ski resorts and 15 other amusement facilities to EPR’s holdings.
EPR operates as a net-lease REIT, with contracted partners operating the facilities and responsible for all expenses. EPR collects payments on long-term leases.
As an income stock, EPR pays monthly dividends, an attractive yield — currently at 5.7% — and annual dividend increases, with average 7% annual growth over the last seven years.
In spite of a dividend increase in January plus the acquisition and development projects, the EPR share price has stagnated for the last year.
Eventually, these factors will push the share price higher. Now is a good time to start or add to a position in this premium monthly dividend REIT. Buy or add EPR up to $74 to lock in a 5.5% yield.
