Hi,
I will take these questions in order;
1 I soak for at least 4 hours.8 hours is ok but not much longer.
2 You can plant now if you can keep the temperatures above 50 degrees at night.
3 I like the seedbed daytime temperature to be above 70 degrees.A grow light or heat mat would help or you can use my "redneck' method and put them in your car in the daytime.
4 It is ok to repot this time of year if you can keep the temperature warm enough.
I hope this helps.It would also be a good idea to read through the old forums.There is a world of information there.Also,if you ask future questions on the current forum,#33 I think,you will get answers from me and from others who may have a different viewpoint.
JT