Don't worry, when you go to bed so late it can trigger REM-sleep right out of the box - that is if you are very tired. With a normal sleep-schedule it probably won't happen.

about getting good dream recall before trying to LD; I think you should just go ahead with everything - some get good recall within the first week (although it of course comes gradually) others take longer. The same goes for the reality checks you would have to do - they usually take some time to sink into your subconsciousnes, so you might as well start doing them. Just go ahead with everything, but keep in mind that it could take a while to get your first Lucid Dream - or you could have one tonight and you may remember it because you wake up immediately after it, being very excited!

Good luck!