Diversification within an investment portfolio can provide investors with some downside protection against an entire sector of the stock market experiencing a downturn. While consumer and tech stocks get a lot of the headlines because of their well-known brands and exciting growth stories, exposure to real estate can help a portfolio be well-rounded.

Some investors prefer to get real estate exposure by purchasing investment properties, but for those uninterested in owning a property, there are ways to benefit from the upsides of owning real estate within a portfolio of equities. Realty Income (NYSE: O) is one company that investors should consider. However, before making an investment decision, there are four things to know about Realty Income before adding it to your portfolio. 

Many companies pay a monthly dividend, but Realty Income puts it right in the tag line for their company, calling itself "The Monthly Dividend Company." However, this is more than just a slogan. Realty Income has increased its Dividend for 29 consecutive years, demonstrating to investors that it is serious about returning capital to its shareholders.

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Source Fool.com