Cantor Sees Improving 2026 Backdrop for Equity REITs, Including LTC Properties, Inc. (LTC)

LTC Properties, Inc. (NYSE:LTC) is included among 10 Best Monthly Dividend Stocks to Buy Now.

On January 5, Cantor Fitzgerald cut its price target on LTC Properties, Inc. (NYSE:LTC) to $36 from $37 while maintaining a Neutral rating. In a research note, the firm said US equity REITs delivered a 2.9% return in 2025, trailing the S&P 500. Looking ahead, 2026 could be more constructive, supported by an improving macro backdrop and rising M&A activity. Cantor also pointed to steady supply and demand dynamics, strong balance sheets, and a well-covered dividend yield of about 4% as reasons the sector remains appealing despite recent underperformance.

Later in the month, on January 26, LTC announced a $108 million acquisition in its Senior Housing Operating Portfolio (SHOP). The deal covers a three-property portfolio in Atlanta, Georgia, with nearly 400 independent living, assisted living, and memory care units. The communities are 92% occupied, were built between 2014 and 2018, and are managed by The Arbor Company, an existing LTC operator that will continue to run the properties. Management said the acquisition supports LTC’s strategy of pairing high-quality real estate with experienced operators to drive long-term growth.SHOP investments totaled $360 million in 2025, with $108 million already completed year-to-date in 2026. SHOP now represents 27% of LTC’s gross investment, up from zero in May 2025. The average age of SHOP properties stands at nine years. Over the same period, skilled nursing exposure has declined to 35% of gross investment, down from 46% at the end of 2024.

Chief Investment Officer Dave Boitano said the transaction sets the tone for 2026. He further made the following comment:

"With SHOP now comprising 27% of our real estate portfolio and a robust pipeline in front of us, we’re positioned to scale quickly and convert that momentum into sustained NOI growth by continuing to add newer, high-quality assets while deepening our relationship with quality operators like Arbor."

LTC Properties, Inc. (NYSE:LTC) is a real estate investment trust focused on seniors housing and health care assets. The company invests primarily through SHOP structures, along with triple-net leases and joint ventures, and owns nearly 190 properties across the United States.

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