Expectations for REIA

[Charles W.]

In addition to the BP community, I've been considering joining a local REIA. I am in the Maryland/DC area, and there are about a dozen advertised organizations on reiclub.com.

What things do you look for in an REI group? What are reasonable costs of membership? What benefits do you expect to get from these meetings/groups?

Before I start driving all over the state and spending money to preview the clubs I'd like to have a better idea of what it is I should expect for my money and my time.

[James Vermillion]

You are going to want to find an organization that is active, not one that meets just a couple times a year. The best bet is to find one that has been established for more than a couple years, as newer ones tend to fall off the charts sometimes. You also want to look for an organization that provides more than guru pitches, a place where you can network, interact, and learn without being pitched expensive mentorship programs.

I cannot speak to the reasonable cost, as I have seen a variety of prices throughout the country. The price should be driven by the benefits, so make sure if you pay, you know you are going to be getting something in return...there is no reason to waste money that you could put towards investing.

Before you drive around going to meetings, call the organizations that seem to have a good thing going. Talk to the leadership and get an idea of what they have to offer. Ask questions. A good club should be looking for more members and would be more than happy to talk with you and answer any questions you have.