Nikko AM Asia Ex Japan REITs vs individual REITs?

You can start with DCA via RSP and work on it first.

If you feel that you have better understanding of REITS and able to manage your emotions or temperament in handling the up and downs of share prices then can move into individual stocks.

Long term wise I will preferable choose ETF due to less involvement although that means lesser returns and less headache.
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If you are confident in picking the right reits and holding long term, then you should.

If not then just go for reit etf. That way you don't need to worry about rights issues too.