Regarding Coinbase: You can open an account anytime. You do not have to buy right away. Just getting the account open is a good start.
I do not recommend keeping anything on an exchange for a long period of time.
Let me know if you have any other questions.
Have a great week!
Steem on,
Mike
You are far too kind, thanks so much for your response, however if i have any questions, i will let you know. Cheers