It's recommended that u do not invest any funds that you'll need for the next 3 years. But while saving for wedding/reno/kids, isn’t 3 years too much of an opportunity cost to not be investing?

If I am sure that I need the money 3 years down the road, I will consider something like single premium endowment plan or even saving bonds. 3 years is just too short to absorb market volatility hence I will go for low risk tool.

Simple answer is risk.

If the amount may drop during this 3 years period, are you ok with it?

If you go after the gains but ignore the risks, you may not have the funds that you need 3 years later.
I make videos about interesting stuff at youtube here​​​

Afterall it is a guideline. The purpose of investing is to achieve your above goals. Maybe spread out your goals apart to give yourself time . Set realistic goals. Do monitor your cash flow too

You can choose stocks as stocks are liquid in nature. I believe you are tempted to go into the market as you see the current situation as an opportunity. Choose a portion of your capital based on your risk profile. The amount is something you can afford to lose. And the goal is to optimise for 3 years. I would recommend dividend style as the price is less volatile. The aim is to collect dividends. Reit is an excellent choice based on your needs.

However, do make periodic check and research on your portfolio (every quarterly or related events). Jump into opportunities and take the profit when the reit/stock is overvalued.

Another investment option is p2p lending platform which is often classified as riskier options by many. The loans issued usually between 1 months- 12 months so it is easy to regulate within your time frame. The rule of thumb is higher the interest rate, the higher the risk. Choose property-secured loans and/or guaranteed loans(funding societies) to reduce your risk involved.

If you have any queries about p2p lendings, look up on the reviews in seedly or PM me​​​

This is just a guideline. You can also set different budgets or savings for different purposes.