Looking for Stable Investments Outside of Stocks… Any Ideas?

Hi everyone,

I’m looking to invest in something with slow, steady returns. The S&P 500 is an obvious choice, but I’d like to explore other options.

One idea I’ve been considering is turnkey rental properties (like out-of-state rentals managed by a property management company). My main worry here is that real estate might be at a peak right now. Also, the companies offering these rentals usually add premiums, so I’d end up paying above market prices, especially with current high interest rates. Just doesn’t feel like the right timing.

I could look into buying a local rental, but I’m in California where the laws are very tenant-friendly and home prices are sky-high.

Right now, I make 5% with no risk in a high-yield savings account. Do you all have any ideas that might be better?

Marin said:
Believe it or not… cheese!

I’m genuinely curious now… please explain!

Shan said:
A partner with solid financial sense… priceless.

Exactly! I’ve seen too many people get into debt due to a spouse who overspent on credit cards and kept it hidden for years.

Shan said:
A partner with solid financial sense… priceless.

Totally! This is something I’m truly grateful for in my marriage.

Believe it or not… cheese!

Marin said:
Believe it or not… cheese!

Interesting… tell me more, I’m a big cheese fan!

Marin said:
Believe it or not… cheese!

Gouda start by telling us which types!

Finley said:

Marin said:
Believe it or not… cheese!

Gouda start by telling us which types!

Invest in Edam… they say it’s a solid choice!

Marin said:
Believe it or not… cheese!

This makes me think Wallace and Gromit were onto something all along.

Marin said:
Believe it or not… cheese!

I’m also curious now.

Marin said:
Believe it or not… cheese!

Too much inventory write-off, though!

Marin said:
Believe it or not… cheese!

This reminds me of that one person who invested in gourds.

Investing in yourself is always a good bet. Books, courses, workshops… if done right, the ROI is amazing.

Skylar said:
Investing in yourself is always a good bet. Books, courses, workshops… if done right, the ROI is amazing.

Absolutely! It’s not just about education. Improving your life in small ways—like better sleep, health, even taking time for mental health—can make a huge difference.

@Kingsley
Sleep, definitely! I need to start putting more into that investment.

Rental properties can be a good investment, but they carry a lot more risk than an S&P 500 index fund. I’d only consider it if it’s local, landlord-friendly, and you enjoy the hands-on work.

You’re making 5% in a high-yield savings account, but with 2.5% inflation, that drops to 2.5%. After taxes on the full 5%, you’re down to about 1.5%.

So, you’re making 1.5% with no risk. Basically just keeping up with inflation.

Some ideas:

  • Bonds for stability
  • REITs for real estate exposure without direct management
  • Money market funds for cash-like returns

If you’re open to non-traditional investments, things like gold and commodities can be interesting, though they’re not for everyone.

@Emory
Agree with these suggestions.

Depending on where you live, forest land can yield about 4-5% ROI in lumber, or you could rent fields for agriculture.