As far as making money, there's a million ways as you know with most of them not available to fresh accounts with no levels, no easy transportation, or startup money. I restarted last year and spent the first few days doing basic crafting that most high level players won't because its not worth their time. Examples: Sheep leather, lvl 2 leather (30k/stack), Copper Ingots, lvl 3 gold (20k/stack). Do that for a week and you might have a million gil. Also, don't worry about gear too much unless you plan to really solo. Get to 10, go to Gusgen mines and join the ally there. Most people there will be naked or in holiday gear so having full gear won't matter.