Reader Case Study - Asset Allocation/Early Retirement/Am I on track?

[randersonnw]

Newly married, but treating this as if I were single as we are on same page and adding spouse would equate to doubling my situation essentially. We don't fully share funds, treated more as a roommate type situation in that regard.
income: average of $3,000 after tax (tipped employee, varies a bit)
Expenses: Jiu jitsu $75
Republic Wireless $25
Insurance $300 (health/car)
Gas $50
Ufc Subscription $10
Food $200
Home rent $325
Vacation $100
Clothing $20
Heating/elec/cable & Internet/AC $120
Total $1235
Monthly Savings $1,500-$1,700

Assets: High risk 'trading account' $4,500
401k $350 (6% + match of 4% per month, just began)
Savings/checking $16,000
Car and miscellaneous $1,150
Total $22,000

No liabilities

I am trying to organize my thoughts of how to best put my monies to work with the idea that I will 'retire' in 7-10 years. Around $10,000 will go to down payment in 6-7 months leaving $6,000 earning nothing right now. In addition I am putting away around $1,500 per month and want to maximize my effectiveness. Good problem to have, but I get frustrated by all the differing advice and ideas. Help in asset allocation and whether I'm on track (encouragement :)) would be greatly appreciated,  thank you guys!!!

[RichMoose]

I would take a look through this guide on the Boglehead Wiki:
http://www.bogleheads.org/wiki/Bogleheads%C2%AE_investing_start-up_kit

Especially focus on these parts:
http://www.bogleheads.org/wiki/Lazy_portfolios
http://www.bogleheads.org/wiki/Principles_of_tax-efficient_fund_placement
http://www.bogleheads.org/wiki/Asset_allocation_in_multiple_accounts

Not to burst your bubble, but it is quite unlikely that you will be able to retire in less than 10 years with a savings rate of ~50%. MMM/ERE simple math says at least 16 years: http://www.mrmoneymustache.com/2012/01/13/the-shockingly-simple-math-behind-early-retirement/

Best luck!

[randersonnw]

Thank you, I will look into those resources and am always looking to supplement income/reduce wasted spending & consumption. My definition of retire might look something like working, but with more control over what & when, which F - you money should help with. Thanks again for your help, this seems like an amazing community of people that share my values, something I am struggling to find locally.