Drop the mufflers, catless DP, remove the crash bar, low fuel, HIGH BOOST, madditive octane booster if the only reason you run 92 is because that's all you can get.
All personal preference. Just try and make sure you can have a good working relationship. (I think of it like hiring an employee). Hiring an employee costs money, sometimes it doesn't work out. That's why you interview :)
Same ticking noise here. It goes away after it runs for a few. Not really worried as it doesn't sound to be coming from an area that would signify a major issue.
MAF and MAP so I don't think you can change them. Someone else may know differently but I'm pretty sure that's why they aren't already interchangeable.
You can use the accessport no matter what parts you have installed. Doesn't have to be only Cobb parts. They just recommend those because they are selling you the accessport. In short, buy a tuning device and find a tuner of your choice.