Zacks reports that Equity LifeStyle Properties (NYSE:ELS) and UMH (AMEX:UMH) rank first and second, respectively, in return on equity (ROE) among residential real estate investment trusts (REITs).  Investors are attracted to firms with high ROEs because it is generally considered to be a sign of efficiency.  Equity’s ROE is 18.4 percent, UMH is 10 percent.  Both Equity and UMH are major players in operating Land Lease Communities (LLCs).