REITs are not typically part of the CMBS loan process. REITs are real estate investment trusts that directly hold property, while CMBS loans are commercial mortgage-backed securities that are derived from a pool of loans. CMBS loans are typically issued by conduit lenders, who pool the loans together and then issue the CMBS. Investors can then purchase the CMBS on the open market, similar to bonds. For investors who want to place funds in the commercial real estate market, while limiting risk, investing in a CMBS ETF can be an ideal choice. These ETFs are generally less risky than investing in REITs, and typically offer higher yields than bonds with a comparable risk profile.