Real Estate Funds (FIIs) are a form of investment that allows the investor to invest in real estate in an indirect and diversified way, as the capital is allocated in different real estate projects. FIIs are constituted as a closed condominium, where the investor acquires shares and becomes a shareholder. These shares are traded on the stock exchange, as if they were shares.
Real Estate Funds are divided into two main types: brick funds and paper funds. Brick funds invest in physical real estate, such as malls, corporate buildings, logistics warehouses, among others. Paper funds, on the other hand, invest in financial assets linked to the real estate market, such as Real Estate Credit Letters (LCIs) and Real Estate Receivables Certificates (CRIs).
The LCI (Real Estate Letter of Credit) and the LCA (Agribusiness Letter of Credit) are credit securities issued by financial institutions, with the objective of financing the real estate sector and agribusiness, respectively. Both are exempt from Income Tax for individuals and are guaranteed by the FGC (Credit Guarantee Fund) up to the limit of R$ 250,000 per CPF and per financial institution.
The LCIs and LCAs market is very attractive to investors, as it offers FGC security and income tax exemption. However, it is important to remember that these bonds have a maturity period, which can vary from 90 days to 5 years, and that they cannot be redeemed before this period.
In the case of FIIs, income can come in two ways: the appreciation of shares and income distributed by the fund, which can come from property rentals, interest on credit securities, among others. FIIs have a tax advantage over other types of real estate investments, as the income distributed is exempt from Income Tax for individuals, provided that the fund has at least 50 shareholders and that the beneficiary shareholder owns less than 10% of the shares from the bottom.
Investing in FIIs can be a good alternative for those who want to diversify their investment portfolio and invest in real estate without the need to buy a physical property. In addition, FIIs allow access to high-quality and well-located properties, which would be inaccessible to most investors.
On the other hand, investing in LCIs and LCAs can be a good option for those looking for security and income tax exemption. However, it is important to remember that these securities have a maturity date and that the money invested cannot be redeemed before that period.
In conclusion, both Real Estate Funds and LCIs and LCAs are ways to invest in the real estate market. Each one has its characteristics and advantages, and the choice between one or the other will depend on the profile and objectives of each investor.
