Brixmor Property Group (NYSE: BRX) is offering investors a 5.2% dividend yield today. Peer Federal Realty (NYSE: FRT) has a yield of 4.7%. From a simple yield perspective, Brixmor has the upper hand, but don't dismiss Federal Realty. In important ways, it is a much better REIT and, particularly for conservative investors, the better investment choice. Here's why.

Strip malls are not the most exciting thing a real estate investment trust (REIT) can own. However, they are reliable cash generators, because they generally house the types of businesses that consumers frequent on a regular basis, including grocery stores, restaurants, and service providers such as hair salons and dry cleaners. Moreover, they're usually local and easy for nearby residents to get to. 

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Source Fool.com