If you are risk averse, you will want to focus on higher current yield, less volatile, more liquid investments.

Im aware of recent market volatility but would like some returns on that capital and potentially receive returns in the short term to apply to our down payment down the line.

Let’s talk about the Seattle real estate market and its current volatility!

It may not set the world on fire with high returns, but the rent is solid, vacancy low, and we don't experience the volatility that other markets in neighboring states do.

Brazil is a volatile market and you have to pay-off the mortgage just to have the opportunity to rent it. 

Especially if the monthly income is somewhat volatile.

So the higher cash flow properties/markets have much higher price volatility, which is the opposite of what you seek with a capital preservation strategy. 

REI is more volatile, but you have total control. 

Also your plan was to spend the money in the near future, so keeping it in a less volatile asset class was most likely the best move at the time.

I did find an online crypto lender that does 5.99% but it can work against you like a margin loan if volatility especially negative returns on the crypto hit.Thinking about trying it with $1k & going no higher than 20% of crypto so I can handle a margin call with ease.Otherwise I’m just stuck with juggling 0% credit cards again & again!