Fundrise: Invest in Alts Reviews

by Seth Borgstede

Unless you plan to invest a lump sum of money and not touch it for 5 years this is not a good investment platform. And even then you could get way better returns elsewhere. There are large penalties for requesting your money before 5 years. With a return that is similar or less than the stock market please don’t waste your time. Download Robinhood and put your money in an ETF and you’ll see your funds grow way faster with much more liquidity. After a week on this platform and finding out how much the penalties are I decided to redeem my shares. They told me my request would not be reviewed for 4 months and then sent a separate message to all shareholders that redemptions would not be disbursed because of the coronavirus. I reached out to customer support and they were extremely unsympathetic and could not care less. Keep in mind I have had my money invested for less than a week and now it’s going to be another 4 months before they even consider my request and even then probably won’t distribute my funds. Awful company. Don’t waste your time.

by D-Rell86

So I was pretty excited at the beginning of investing into this. Something new and looking at majority of the reviews, I was confident that I was making the right choice.

The concept is very innovative and fresh. Very detailed in where the investment is going and an update on profit or loss everyday. The amount of the profit is heavily dependent on how much money is put into it.

I read a negative review about this app and I too am going through the same situation with requesting my investment back on February 4th 2020. It has to be reviewed and it takes almost 3 months. My scheduled review date was March 31.

Since Covid-19 has happened, I was told it is being suspended until further notice because they want to protect everyone’s investments as a whole. I have not received an update since then, but I continue to receive profits. I don’t believe that these actions are good business practices. They will gladly accept more investments to help build more clientele and profit for themselves, but not take action to help those that do need that help due to these crazy and troubling times.

Overall, I will not invest with this company again and I will take legal action, if need be, to get my investment back. I don’t mind paying the ‘advisory fee’. If you have enough money to receive about a 4% return each quarter, then go for it. Otherwise don’t bother.

by _Fluhr_

I was very happy with this app at the beginning just like other comments said they make very nice reports of the investments and nice returns.

HOWEVER, when I requested my money back in early January 2020, for personal reasons, and I accepted to be charged the early withdrawal fees, which they charged me. They rejected my request in April!

I understand that when you request your money you have to wait for the quarter, so that they can move the money around and adjust. But I CANNOT believe that after 4 months they couldn’t give me the money back. I also understand Corona Virus happened but I requested my money in JANUARY THREE WHOLE MONTHS before quarantine.

ADDITIONALLY, early January when I requested my money to be given back the way this app makes you do it is very “sketchy” because it doesn’t give you options of what to take out or how much you are taking if even. I had to email customer service and I exchange multiple emails asking if I would get the FULL AMOUNT in the account minus the fee by the end of the quarter. The girl was very evasive about it and made me think that they would not give me my money back.

Now I am stuck. With this company. THAT I WOULD NOT RECOMMEND. If you are interested in something like this app there are WAY BETTER and WAY MORE companies as such. So walk away and choose better than I did.

by Kitcatdoll

When I first downloaded Fundrise and went through their project portfolio, most properties shows about 8-12% return on investment. And I thought that’s what I could expect on my investment. But it turned out after one year, it only provided a bit over 4% on return. I thought I was put into different investment projects that yield lower returns or my invested fund didn’t reach a certain level but it turned out neither were the case. So it’s either 8-12% is a fraudulent representation or the differences are what the company takes! On top of the fees they collect. So when I wanted to pull my money out, they told me if I do that before a certain period I will be penalized which reminded me of certain mutual fund rules. I can say this is a total scam!!! Be aware and stay away!!!

by Astraw13

Interesting idea but lacks transparency. Upon opening an account, I was bombarded with demands to deposit money but why the heck would I do that before fully understanding your fees, commissions, and costs. Additionally, what kind of returns can one expect and how is this any different than just investing into a REIT etf? Because you can see the properties the REIT holds and is developing? Presumably, they’re banking on people feeling like they actually own the buildings themselves so that they can brag to their friends and family. I’m down with this idea, but please make it clear what kind of fees and commissions y’all take from the top. I’ve got $50k that I could invest but won’t until transparency is improved.

by Mac 23ten

The old app logo was was better. Need to integrate the offering page from the desktop/mobile browser into Fundrise . Why can’t I just simply see all the eReit portfolios and make a direct investment!!🤦🏽‍♂️It’s so frustrating!!!😡🤬😡🤬
And the direct investment button is Sooo small, do you guys actually want people to invest in your platform? And why say direct investment instead of just simply a BUY button highlighted in green. That’s the universal word and color in the world of investing.
But other than this new orange app logo the layout, information and color scheme is very nice, a lot of eye candy.
Please address these concerns

by Deanerock

I like being able to invest in real estate in a way that is typically limited to big accredited investors.
Recently, the % annualized and cumulative gains and losses have been removed from the mobile app, yes I could do the math myself, but why? Please bring that back.
Also, a little vague as we are buying “shares” that all cost 10$. When I get my dividends and appreciations paid back, am I buying at 10$ per share? Do the share prices ever fluctuate?
Overall exciting and good platform, accessible and easy to use opening up a channel of diversification for us little guys. Thanks

by SamSam12341

I put $10,000 over a year ago in and I get about $200 deposited into my bank account quarterly. So far I’ve made $1,200 which has been deposited directly into my chase account. I don’t plan on taking out my investment any time soon as it is fine passive income for now. I deducted a star because of what others have wrote about it being extremely difficult to take your money out. I am nervous for when that time comes. If you’re planning on just letting your money sit, it’s fine. Others are also saying they do not see returns. I believe the more you put in, the higher percentage of returns you receive (in my opinion based on the comments). I

by Tetetebe

I’ve been vested in this app since February 2021, so one year in. I knew what I was dipping my toes in when I did the research behind this app. I love investing I do stocks, bonds, mutual funds, utma, crypto and so on. I’m just big on diversification. Investing isn’t cool where I come from so I’m very much self taught and very active in my own personal finances. I’m also not the highest earner but I believe in putting Penny’s away. So with this app I looked at it as the grandfather of my investment vehicles. The slow long haul granddaddy. And that it is. It’s very stable so look at it that way. Also for people who are into reits and real estate in general I found this to be a great way to get some money in those terms. Just know you have to keep that money locked a way for a while. I have only put in $900 and that’s about all for now. I plan to keep the money away for the 5-6 years . Just be patient and know that you don’t need $500 to start with this app like it was required when I signed up. You can play around with just a few dollars to see if you like it or feel more comfortable having that amount locked away .

by Edward482924

Securities fraud alert for retail investors with very little. When you create an account it automatically withdraws $500 from your bank account and shows up in a transaction history after a day. I never agreed to a specific portfolio strategy it simply gave me one and said add 500 more for this different strategy. The website clearly advertises services where we “choose [our] portfolio strategy”. Very disappointed in how they appeal to retail investors in a manner that can only be defined as fraudulent.

by Celeste_Noelle

this app has been an incredible investment for me. I began small with just a few thousand dollars in during 2020. I believe at the time I had a "growth" portfolio and at the end of the year had made an 8% return. In 2021, I switched to a "balanced" portfolio (recommended for my age group) and received a 26% return! And I didn't have to do a thing! I realize that this may not always be the case and don't want to promise that if you get this app you'll get that high of a return every time...we all know markets can change at any time.

However, I have absolutely recommended this app to any of my friends looking to invest. I will continue to do so as I believe the folks at this app are doing a great job, doing their research, and making apt decisions based on the current market.

by 123456789mRio

Fundrise and investing service are both wonderful. Good information updates of properties. Fundrise is well designed and informative. It provides good info about your money…….. it’s a good way for a new investor to get started………. I would love to see a widget for Fundrise. . But other wise it’s fantastic. I’ve made money from this app. Just be aware . If you invest in this you won’t be able to touch the funds for 5 years. But if you plan on that. And invest extra money that you don’t need for bills . It will work out for you..

by RyRyRon

This is a great app and different investment than I use on my traditional stock trading account. It is VERY clear about the penalties to pull you money. In the end, they are basically telling you don’t pull it out ! I actually find this investment more safe. When the stock market starts sinking , and people panic sell you can lose alotttttttt of money in a short period time. Not with this app ! They don’t easily give it back to protect all investors involved. Just sit back and collect your dividends , that’s what I do 😀

by "polophil"

I like this app finally a core investor started with basic. Like all companies they maybe a little rocky on the details during their birth but I really believe they will try to iron out some of the issues we have on when we can cash our instead of being forced. If your able to hold out for long term and this is supposed to be for long term. I highly recommend it
Good way to diversify yourself and get your feet wet, 5 star properties can’t complain. Auto invest features for dividend and payouts.
I see a bright future for this app as long as there’s not any deception I’m not seeing yet. Proud to be here.

by Mike1737$3

this app has made it incredibly easy to gain access to a mostly illiquid & private marketplace. It has been a great income producing investment helping to level out the occasional bumpy ride in the stock market. The this app platform also provides insightful/timely updates on portfolio activity and does so with intuitive ease. My wife and I have this app investments across all of our investment accounts (Rollover IRA, Roth and after-tax personal savings) and have been impressed with the platform enhancements over the years. We’ll be happy to park more capital here in the years to come!

by Pablo Noe A.

this app is an amazing option for investing for the long term and consistent investor. The policies they implement into their program are great barriers to assure your money is only being placed where it can compound and create larger wealth, pooling your money with several other investors with similar goals as yours. After a certain quantity of deposits they allow you to choose primarily what kind of returns you’d like to see, whether it be growth, dividends, or just a very safe secure balance. Through these turbulent times, this app is another great way to diversify your capital into fruitful assets.

by Beam_71

I have been seeing a lot of hate in the reviews, “they charged me when I tried to pull my money out after a year” or “they won’t give me my money back due to the COVID.” What did you expect? This is crowd funding for one, for two it’s real estate investing, you’re not going to get a sizable return for a minimum of 5 years. I know I’m not the only one who read the disclaimers when setting up my account. Just do yourself a favor before you go complaining about a great product such as this app and do some research before you buy. And never invest anything you can’t afford to lose.

by FullMetelDemon

Fundrise is great. They told me about 10% growth a year and that’s about what I got more or less. I see a lot of people complaining about not getting their money back fast enough when they want to opt, and I don’t really sympathize for them, because I have many investments in real estate and understand how illiquid it is. It’s just common sense. If you invest in real estate, don’t expect your money back whenever you want it. Don’t put money in that you need easy access to, this is only good for if you have a spare $500+ that you DO NOT need on hand and won’t need for many years.

by Mcc160

Lots of people don’t read when they sign up and perhaps though this is like a regular public reit or something. It’s not. Calling it scam is very misleading and irresponsible. It’s been clearly communicated that this app is long term real estate investment and that it takes at least five years to redeem without fees. If this is not what you want, don’t sign up.

This is better as an alternative investment and if you have some extra cash set aside for long term investment. If u need the money, don’t do it.

I have been with this app for 2 years. Return has been decent and I would say probably better than if you own your own real estate property if u do the math.

by B3hr057

Not only is it a bad return, less than 2% so far (In the same period of time other investments using apps like this are returning between 5% to 9%), but it also has low liquidity. That is to say, you can tell them you want your money, and they’ll tell you they’ll get around to giving it to you when it’s convenient. That might be in a few weeks, or maybe a year. Other places I invest, it takes no more than 4-5 business days to have cash in liquid accounts. I wouldn’t mind the lack of liquidity, if it meant good returns like they are posting everywhere (8%-12%), but that’s not my experience.

Cool idea, but do your research before investing. Actual returns may be much lower than they would have you believe.

by Redshifts

These reviews are bought and paid for.

This company is unscrupulous, dishonest, and although they do a good job of appearing stable and well established- they are not.

I invested $1000 with this company in 2017. It accumulated about $40 to now. I tried redeeming my investment and withdrawing my money only to find that they were hitting me with so many fees that it wiped out the entire amount of interest gained- and then some.

They wanted to return me less than the amount I first invested.

Turns out there is a hidden clause buried deep in their 10 page legal document when you click “I agree” that pretty much says if you want to withdraw your money in less than 5 years you are screwed.

They spend a lot of effort making it seem like this is a transparent, easy, hassle free way of investing your money. None of the drawbacks are mentioned out front.
Be warned. Don’t trust these people.

by Guitarfreeeeaaakkk

I’m an investor, and Fundrise has never worked on my iPhone. I’d appreciate this being fixed. I keep hoping with each new update it will be, but it continues to not work. I have the iPhone 6S with latest iOS updates — is the 6S no longer supported? This is the only app I’ve ever had that has not work on my phone. As soon as I click Fundrise , screen blanks out and I’m back to my main screen as if I hadn’t tried to open Fundrise .

by UltraAggressiveInvestor

While some features have yet to be added, such as the ability to view documents or setup automatic payments, all essential functions of this app are here. You can add funds, view your portfolio, read updates, etc. Future suggestions, like adding a feature so that you can geographically see the location of your properties, similar to the website, will probably be added in the near future. For Fundrise does it’s job. 4.5/5 stars.

by ChrisR19

Been waiting for Fundrise to manage my account for awhile. Looks good. One thing is that it wont let you manage individual funds through Fundrise , only “plans”. Would like to see that change. But other than that solid work!

by Pstud

I’ve been waiting for this! Nice job this app. I wouldn’t expect every feature I can think of to be available at launch, so I’m basing this review on realistic expectations of the initial version. This version includes a great interface, standard (very good) authentication routines, as well as the ability to view and manage most aspects of your account. Great job folks.

by Jdylan423

I’ve been investing with this app since 2017 and I can’t say enough great things about this platform and the sustainable growth it offers. Even as an accredited investor with access to many exclusive deals, I park my money with this app because it’s just seamless and reliable. this app is the best kept secret in the “generating wealth” game and Fundrise is an amazing addition to the this app experience.

by MisterIggzter

Great start to Fundrise ’s development! Almost everything I can do on the website, I can do on Fundrise . The only thing I can think of to improve my experience is being able to see any changes in the account balance since last login, just like in the full website. Otherwise great job, kudos to the developers! 👏🏼👏🏼

by Theshea3

Excellent next step in the evolution of the platform. I just passed my 1y anniversary with this app, and have loved the continuous enhancement to the UI. It’s clear the company has its investors in mind. Fundrise now adds the convenience of skipping a browser, to jump right into their beautiful reporting and check on all the bricks you own! Can’t wait to see what’s next..

by Jimmykus

Fundrise is very easy to use and the platform is solid too. I have a lot of respect for a company that tells you what to realistically expect in the near future rather than promise high returns when the market is topping out. They know what they’re doing and care about their investors. Definitely has a place in my portfolio for the long-term.

by CindyP116

this app app is super quick and convenient to access your account, get latest info on projects and updates posted, etc. it maneuvers you to the various pages quickly. I think it’s more efficient to view than using a laptop. I’m glad it’s also compatible with touch passcode. 1-2-done!

by Studiezalot

2019 ended good for me with 5.4% return since July. Not bad. Looks like I’ll be hitting that 10% promise after all come July 2020. I was surprised that I couldn’t pull my money out without a penalty but I didn’t know that real estate was an illiquid investment. Still learning about investing. So looks like I’m leaving it in there!

by Happy In Vacaville CA

this app is perfect for me. I have wanted to invest a little of my non-earned income for years but never knew how without excessive risk, costs or difficulty. I love the do it myself aspects and all the easy to understand information I have access to if desired. If not I ignore it. Perfect.

by JAF1944

I was very surprised when I opened Fundrise and saw how well developed it was. There are a few things that can be added but as of now I am very satisfied. I hope this company keeps doing well. I feel I have made a great investment. Thank you for your professionalism and expertise.

by @therealpeterpan_

With the stock market expected not to do too hot within the next few years, this app is where it’s at. Real estate should never depreciate and with the country only growing, this is the best way to make your money work for you.

by Instacrap

It has been a lot of Fun investing with this app and it’s exciting to see the company continue to grow! App is a quick download, runs smoothly! Very happy it’s become available! Hope others enjoy this investment opportunity as much as I have!