So there’s some buzz in the REI realm right now about the launch of REI Wired.
The doors opened up today (1/15/09) at Noon EST, and apparently they’re opening for a limited number of “charter members” to beta test the system.
While some people (I won’t call names) are falling over themselves to push you towards it, I have another idea – to actually help you make the right decision…for you.
If you’re considering investing a portion of your hard-earned education budget into this, then feel free to pat yourself on the back for wisely catching this post today first…
(Update: Doors are now closed to new charter members, but should re-open at some point in the near future.)
If you’re super short on time, listen to this…
An Honest, Due Diligence Assessment…
It’s noteworthy that these guys have planted their stake in the ground as…
“The first Internet TV station devoted exclusively to investing in real estate.”
Honestly I can’t say they deserve that title – others have predated them in this arena.
But I will say after chatting privately with Mike Collins about it, I’m intrigued by their creative model and their innovative approach.
It’s basically a 2-part deal:
Part 1: A gaggle of educational media from their last two “No Pitch” REI seminars. A physical product comprised of like a bajillion hours of pitch-free REI training from a myriad of respectable experts (including a few personal friends of mine) .
Part 2: An ongoing feed of continuing REI education (broadcast mostly by way of internet video)
I have the advantage of having attended one of their “pitch free” events, so I’ll personally vouch for the quality of training in Part 1. It’s very, very good in my opinion.
Of course the “Internet TV” facet is forthcoming, so I can’t offer much on it, except to say I hope they maintain the same quality standards. If so, it’ll be a winner.
(Update: Doors are now closed to new charter members, but should re-open at some point in the near future.)
A Private Chat with the Mad Scientist…
Admittedly while they’re in “launch mode” it can be a real challenge to not be either put off or swept up by the onslaught of marketing being pushed at you. So for those who want to see quickly past the busy-ness of the launch media, I give you an easy alternative…
Here’s a recording of a short, private chat I had with Mike Collins recently. It’s basically a “Reader’s Digest” look at REI Wired…
- What it really is
- What it’s NOT, and
- Who it’s ideally suited for.
Is REI Wired right for you?
I strongly suggest you wisely invest a few short minutes into this before you make a buying decision. Consider it an essential part of your “due diligence”. You owe it to yourself to size it up properly first.
If REI Wired seems like a good match for you, charter memberships are available here…
(Update: Doors are now closed to new charter members, but should re-open at some point.)
PS…Your comments are welcome below.
I feel that what Mike Collins have is good. in that the cost to travel will alow a investor to make the most of his, or her time. And if the lesson’s can be recorded on the investor computer, they can view it over and over when ever needed.
I signed up for REIwired.com and I have found that so far 2 of the videos audio cuts to fuzz at the 30 min mark. I emailed support to let them know about the first video and they said they would have it fixed the next day.
Well its the next and and the video is not fixed, and I have found another video that cuts the audio to nothing but fuzz sound after 27 mins. I emailed them about this with no reply after many hours.
Mike Collins also had a conference call last night and told people that they were adding new videos every hour. Which they have not did either after 24 hours.
Also Mike said we would get a month free of the 67 dollar membership fee. I have been billed for the 67 as soon as I signed up instead of getting the first 30 days free.
So after not getting any reply from my 2nd email to support about the videos audio problems and a question about the 67 dollar charge that shouldn’t be there I am feeling ripped off.
The info is good but what good is it if your only getting half of what you pay for? At least have support get back to me.
Buyer beware!
Can’t understand why you send an email AFTER it is closed to join something? Let’s not waste your money or my time.
Thanks much.
It seems like a good match for me, but I’m afraid, not everyone is able to experience its benefits. Internet education wins really more and more fans, but let me speak on the part of those people (or even countries), unable to afford this. there are still many problems to solve in this sphere…sure, I understand that it’s for each person to decide whether to use it or not, but I tend to think globally. anyway, I’m all for this tendency, so i really appreciate your work.