i pose this question at three different price ranges
50to100k
300to400k
500k to800k
if you pick real estate then what type
also your goals are most important too. if your goals are retirement it would be different than growth.
if i was going to investment for retirement:
1. liquid - buy combination of Index funds, some REITS, quality blue chip stocks that pay dividends, strong long term muni bonds, corp bonds
2. maybe 30% down on a multi unit complex (8 units or so)
growth
1. buy into private equity (they are killing it)
2. still have liquid investments like above just more risk for growth
3. risky investments (maybe something on the Pink sheets)
4. invest/bankroll a local business or unique start up idea
as the risk factor is increased ....
if i had $800k post taxes
-buy a small condo with 50% down and chip away at it over the years. there is something to be said for a paid off place
-retirement liquid investment noted above in diversified avenues. just make solid logical decsions