Honestly, with the indices as they are right now, peaking compared to yearly averages, Id hold off. Id likely stick a chunk in ING direct, maybe put some into a 1, or 2 year CD (3.7-3.9%), the rest will be getting 3%. By no means a long-term investment, but Id likely want to sit it like that right now. However, Id probably make a 25-30k ameritrade account to do a little side investing in some jewels, and maybe augment a little bit by doing that.
This would give you security and pop a little money out. Once again, its not a long-term plan. Ive read that ~50/50 allocation in an index s&p and index bond fund is historically an excellent way to minimize risk, minimize loss, and minimize fees.
Likely for you, Id be more concerned about getting your money out with minimal taxation issues. Im not knowledgable on real estate sale taxes, but it seems to me that the rate is pretty high.
Maybe you ought to invest at least some into rental properties that you can claim for a year or so to be primary residence (living somewhere else for a year isnt that hard to do). If youre already invested in the poconos, what about looking in E. Stroudsburg, near the university? Univ. towns tend to have some stability, and always need rentals. If you can claim a unit as a residence, couldnt you skirt the tax issue and then gain a larger "return" on the virtue of having not lost a lot of $$$ in taxes?
Just babbling... just a thought.
JMH
