Investing in real estate doesn't always have to involve purchasing a physical property. There are a few different ways to invest in real estate without buying property, including investing in real estate investment trusts (REITs), real estate mutual funds, and real estate crowdfunding platforms. REITs are publicly traded companies own and manage income-producing real estate, including office buildings, apartments, and retail establishments. Several REITs and stocks with a connection to real estate are purchased by real estate mutual funds. Platforms for real estate crowdfunding enable investors to combine their funds together to participate in certain real estate projects, including residential or commercial structures. By investing in these alternative methods, investors can still gain exposure to the real estate market without the responsibilities and costs of owning and managing physical properties.