Got $2,000 to Invest in December? These Dividend Stocks Could Turn It into a Monthly Stream of Passive Income in 2026.

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights three real estate investment trusts (REITs) that provide attractive monthly dividend income, making them appealing options for passive income investors in 2026 [1][14]. Group 1: EPR Properties - EPR Properties focuses on experiential real estate, leasing properties like movie theaters and attractions to generate predictable rental income [3]. - The company recently expanded its portfolio by acquiring five golf courses and a waterpark for a total investment of $113 million, raising its 2025 investment total to $285 million [4]. - EPR Properties has a current dividend yield of 6.80% and raised its payout by 3.5% earlier this year, positioning it for further dividend increases in 2026 [5]. Group 2: Healthpeak Properties - Healthpeak Properties is a healthcare REIT that invests in outpatient medical buildings, life science properties, and senior housing, leasing to healthcare companies for stable rental income [6]. - The REIT plans to monetize over $1 billion of its outpatient medical office portfolio to fund new developments and acquisitions [8]. - Healthpeak switched to monthly dividends earlier this year and increased its payout by 2%, indicating a healthier financial profile for future growth [9]. Group 3: Realty Income - Realty Income owns a diversified portfolio across retail, industrial, and gaming sectors, providing steady rental income [10]. - The REIT is set to invest $6 billion in new properties this year, including an $800 million investment in Las Vegas gaming properties, which will enhance its rental income [12]. - Realty Income has a strong history of dividend growth, having raised its monthly dividend 132 times since 1994, with a current yield of 5.50% [13].