Income investors are on the prowl for yield in this market – and real estate investment trusts (REITs) can offer an attractive, reliable income stream, especially those that pay dividends on a monthly basis. The REIT sector has been generous with dividend increases so far this year, with 8 REITs announcing payout hikes last month alone, according to data from S&P Global Market Intelligence. For investors seeking regular income payments, three REITs that recently raised their monthly dividends and are top-rated by analysts include EPR Properties (EPR), Whitestone REIT (WSR), and Realty Income C…