[wdcbooks]

Don't worry about feeling like a retard. Vanguard will take it step by step and there are a number of good funds to choose from. I would also look at their retirement funds. They are dated based on the date you are most likely to retire. So you might look at Vanguard Retirement 2045, if you think you might retire in 40 years.

You will not be able to withdraw this money before 59 1/2 without a penalty. This is a good thing. If you want to buy property you should use other assets. Retiring at a reasonable age will be hellishly expensive with minimal government assistance. The more money you can accumulate now, the less you will struggle when you are in your forties and fifties. Saving now directly improves your quality of life for many decades to come. Withdrawing it and paying a penalty is shooting yourself in the foot.