 TITLE: Where Should You Save Your Down Payment Money? CONTENT: Trading Risk for Reward With Investments\n----------------------------------------\nEven the best high-yield accounts offer meager gains. That can make the idea of investing seem attractive: What if you could make real gains and earn dividends on your money?\nThe problem with investing is risk. Savings accounts may not earn you a fortune, but they are safe, insured and surprise-free. With investments, the gains can be higher but the losses can be devastating. One hedge against this kind of risk is time. If you expect to save your down payment over 10 years, for example, fluctuations in the stock market may be less concerning. If past market trends are any indication, your money is likely to grow over that period of time. But if you're targeting a three- to five-year homebuying goal, be cautious.\n*   **Consider investing a small portion of your savings to start.** You'll put less money at risk.\n*   **Check out lower-risk investments.** These methods, such as money market funds or Series I savings bonds, can grow your savings with little risk.\n*   **Learn everything you can about investing.** A financial advisor or even a robo-advisor may help. END