Investing 5-10K when basics are done

[EEinNJ]

Most threads on this topic are about where to park an emergency fund, or retirement investing, etc.
My situation is a little different. I'm looking for ideas for what to do with money when my Roth and 401k is already funded, I have a well funded EF and portfolio, new cars with no loans, I have no debt, no mortgage, no kids, more toys than I have time to play with, and my wife just got a job making more than me.

I know, what's the problem? Well, I'm reluctant to invest more in equities or bonds. I don't like Real estate because it's illiquid and has carrying costs. Staying in cash is a safe but slowly eroding option.

How about some creative ideas (besides give it to Uncle Sam, John Cash, "me", etc.) ?

[disneysteve]

What are your goals for this money? When might you need it? Do you own your home? If not, do you plan to buy a home anytime soon? Are there any other financial needs on the horizon like a special vacation, home renovation, etc.?

Why are you reluctant to invest in equities?

[tripods68]

Consider Vanguard MF Munis (TAX FREE) for high income earner.
Buy TIPS, Precious metal, OWN a business franchise.

[jteezie]

I'm in a good financial situation like you as well and also had some difficulties with what to so with the excess money. I recommend gaining experiences. Save for vacations and enjoy them while you are still able to fully. Maybe spend it on ways to save time so you can maximize your free time. For example buying dinner might save cooking time if you don't enjoy cooking.

[snafu]

Have a look at REITs which is similar to an ETF based on a group of Real Estate holdings. If you like those sites you can invest in the program offered by many financial institutions. Personally, I'd invest in a Dividend EFT, more equity but lower risk. If you like International activity have a look at Australian equities.

[EEinNJ]

DS, I'm with you about considering goals, and to answer your questions, I paid off the house last year. The wife would like a better one, but we're not anxious to attempt to sell in a down market- besides, continuing to stay in NJ long term is not that attractive. I have savings for vacations (if only we had more time!) and renovations (though I've already spent a bundle).

As far as equities go, I guess I have a "let it ride" strategy, rather than wanting to "double down".

and Jtezzie, you're right- you can get more money, but we only have so much time. When my wife got her job she said "we're going to eat out and get take-out more". I've been a lot more willing to pay someone else for doing yardwork, etc.!

Collectibles are tempting- guitars, for example. I know I said I wasn't interested in real estate, but rural land is also appealing.

[LivingAlmostLarge]

Why not negotiate more time off instead of increased salary? I only ask because my DH takes a week unpaid every year which the company allows everyone to "buy". He has a ridiculous 30+ days of vacation, 11 holidays, and 10 sick if he chooses. Right now he just took off 2 weeks (10 days) and still has 20 something days. Use or lose to boot.

When you have money you have no time it seems. When you are broke and have time off you have no money to travel because you are so broke. So now my DH says it's worth having 1 week less pay to have fun.