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Crowdstreet is one of the best real estate investing apps for accredited investors to invest in commercial properties that typically wouldn't be available to regular people.Jennifer Streaks, Senior Personal Finance Reporter & Spokesperson
About CrowdStreet
You can invest in diversified funds and vehicles, individual deals, and tailored portfolios. Like many other real estate investing platforms, you may be able to invest with a self-directed IRA (SDIRA).
CrowdStreet serves real estate sponsors by offering them options to raise capital and list real estate deals on the CrowdStreet marketplace. Investors, however, should be prepared to park their funds between three and five years (though investment terms for some offerings may range up to 10 years).
Most of its choices are illiquid, meaning you won't be able to convert them to cash as easily as you would a stock or ETF.
It doesn't currently have mobile apps, but you can sign up for web access with a Google or LinkedIn account.
Is CrowdStreet Right For You?
Only accredited investors can use
CrowdStreet is suitable for both active and passive investors. Since the platform has multiple portfolio options, you can choose a self-managed or fully managed account (aka tailored portfolios). But you'll need to meet a high minimum to access managed portfolios.
Crowdstreet: Overall Rating
| Feature | Insider rating (out of 5) |
| Fees | 4.50 |
| Investment selection | 5.00 |
| Liquidity | 3.50 |
| Ethics | 4.00 |
| Access | 4.00 |
| Customer support | 3.25 |
| Overall score | 4.11 |
Crowdstreet Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
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Is CrowdStreet Trustworthy?
When reviewing investment platforms, we look at scores from the Better Business Bureau. BBB scores range from A+ to F. When analyzing companies, the bureau considers multiple factors. These include licensing and government actions, advertising issues, bankruptcy, and more.
CrowdStreet has a new BBB page with an A+ rating. But because the page is new, there are no customer reviews or complaints yet.
Keep in mind that the bureau's ratings don't absolutely ensure a company will be reliable or perform well. You may want to read customer reviews or talk to friends or family who have used CrowdStreet to determine whether it's a good fit.
CrowdStreet has no been part of any major lawsuits or scandals.
Ways to Invest with CrowdStreet
CrowdStreet offers three ways to invest in commercial real estate. Here's the breakdown.
Diversified Funds and Vehicles
CrowdStreet's diversified funds and vehicles investment option is best for those who want to spread money across multiple properties. The company gives you access to two types of funds:
- Single-sponsor funds: These funds are led by one real estate firm and are focused on either specific asset classes or particular regions.
- CrowdStreet funds: These funds rely on a broader set of CrowdStreet-managed properties.
CrowdStreet property types include multifamily, retail, office, industrial, land opportunities, and other vehicles provided by real estate companies.
Individual Deals
With the platform's Portfolio Center, you can monitor your investment performance and interact with real estate sponsors. (See a complete list of its individual deals here.)
Tailored Portfolios
CrowdStreet also has an option for those who prefer managed accounts; CrowdStreet's tailored portfolios do all the work for you. Just be prepared for the higher minimum account balance — you'll need at least $250,000 to begin.
Tailored portfolios utilize customized investment strategies that align with your particular goals. You can learn more about CrowdStreet's customized portfolios here.
Crowdstreet Fees
Technically you can open a
Tailored portfolios also have annual management fees from 0.25% to 2.50%.
Real estate sponsors may be charged multiple fees ranging from 1% to 5%.
Investors aren't charged fees from CrowdStreet. But sponsors may also charge investors fees (read more about its sponsor fees here).
CrowdStreet — Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Is CrowdStreet only for accredited investors?
Yes. Crowdstreet only serves accredited investors. Accredited investors are individuals who either have a net worth that exceeds $1 million, or earn $200,000 annually ($300,000 for couples).
Does CrowdStreet pay monthly?
Crowdstreet says its real estate sponsors typically pay distributions on a quarterly basis, though this can vary per offering.
How much should you invest in CrowdStreet?
CrowdStreet has a minimum requirement of $25,000, so this should be the lowest amount you initially invest with through the platform. It's wise to make sure any additional amounts you invest align with your budget and personal finances. Certain features, like tailored features, require much higher minimums.
Compare CrowdStreet
CrowdStreet vs. RealtyMogul
And while
Read our RealtyMogul review.
CrowdStreet vs. EquityMultiple
However, EquityMultiple and CrowdStreet both share the accredited-only investor option. The difference between these two platforms is mainly one of fees, account minimums, and investment choices.
You'll pay less to get started at
Read our EquityMultiple review.
Why You Should Trust Us: Our Methodology for Reviewing CrowdStreet
Real-estate investing platforms generally offer low fees, multiple asset classes, financial tools, and other resources. Some real estate investing platforms are better for more advanced investors or active investors, while others may better suit beginner investors and passive investors. CrowdStreet was evaluated with a focus on how it performed in each category.