<prompt> Human: Hi there, long-time lurker here. Im planning on investing approximately 85k with Vanguard. I an planning on using it as a down-payment on a home in approximately three years. The shorter horizon has made it difficult for me to figure out the ideal asset mix. Vanguard recommends:21 Total Stock Market Index Fund Investor Shares9 Total International Stock Index Fund Investor Shares56 Total Bond Market Index Fund Investor Shares14 Total International Bond Index Fund Investor SharesAnybody have any thoughts? I appreciate the help!  <response>: Im surprised there is no cash allocation recommended, as while it doesnt earn much anything, with portfolio management its about managing your overall risk. Within 1-3 years, youre generally not recommended to invest, otherwise probably 5050 between bonds and cash. If youre more on the under 3-5 years, even Schwab recommends 15 large cap, 5 international, 50 fixed income, and 30 cash. The international bond exposure Id probably prefer having in cash, but thats just me. 