I’m 50 and went from being homeless to owning a home. Where do I invest $50,000?

Dear Quentin,

I have a question that might appear like a simple one, especially for all the advanced money-management folks out there and for people with more money than I have. I am 50, have very little savings, and I would like to invest $50,000. What is a good type of account to start with? Where can I get a 5% or 6% interest rate?

I…