Investing in dividend stocks can provide investors with a steady income stream. Companies that consistently pay dividends tend to have strong fundamentals and outperform those that don’t. Dividend-paying stocks have historically delivered higher returns, with 95% of the S&P 500’s total return coming from compounding and reinvested dividends since 1960.

Realty Income (NYSE: O) is a real estate investment trust that owns and leases over 15,000 commercial properties. It pays monthly dividends, providing investors with a reliable income stream. With a history of increasing dividends, Realty Income offers a 5.6% annual dividend yield, making it an attractive option for income-seeking investors.

BlackRock (NYSE: BLK) is a leading asset manager with over $13.5 trillion in assets under management. The company offers a variety of ETF options through its iShares brand, catering to different risk profiles. BlackRock has raised its dividend payout for 16 consecutive years and provides a blend of income and growth for investors.

Ares Capital Corporation (NASDAQ: ARCC) is a business development corporation that offers a high dividend yield of over 9%. While BDCs like Ares Capital provide high income potential, they carry risks associated with lending to middle-market companies. Despite potential defaults, Ares Capital has a track record of solid performance and is a good choice for investors seeking high-yield dividend stocks.

The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team has identified the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now, excluding Realty Income. These stocks have the potential for significant returns over the coming years. With Stock Advisor’s average return outperforming the S&P 500, investors can access top-performing stocks and join a community focused on individual investors.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: The Best Dividend Stocks to Buy With $2,000 Right Now