10 Safe Stocks to Buy for the Long Term in 2026

8. Essex Property Trust, Inc. (NYSE:ESS)

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 40

On May 27, Truist raised the firm’s price recommendation on Essex Property Trust, Inc. (NYSE:ESS) to $286 from $273. It reiterated a Hold rating on the shares. The firm said it adjusted its model to reflect assumptions of $300M in acquisitions for 2026 and $75M in dispositions, the analyst said in a research note.

On May 15, Scotiabank raised its price goal on ESS to $282 from $278. It maintained an Outperform rating on the shares. The firm said it is updating price targets for the U.S. multifamily REITs under its coverage. Scotiabank expects a slower recovery across Sunbelt markets, estimating that it could take several years to absorb the excess supply created by overbuilding in many of those areas. The firm added that Essex Property remains one of its preferred multifamily names because of its exposure to Northern California.

Essex Property Trust, Inc. (NYSE:ESS) is a self-administered and self-managed real estate investment trust. The company acquires, develops, redevelops, and manages apartment communities in selected residential areas along the West Coast of the United States.