First follow some basic step of SEO like: General Setup -Install google Analytics-Set up Destination goal -Set up google webmaster tool -Link google webmaster tool with g...

Exactly ^ I think Ahrefs will help not just for checking ranks but they also have much more data to work with.

You can just signup for a free trial on ahrefs

Directory submission for SEO still works fine. But it has to be done properly and relevantly. Adopt an up to date link-building strategy to your directory submission camp...

Just keep it forever.

There is a lot of keyword tools for research your keyword. some are free and some are paid but i mostly recommend paid SEO tools. In my experience Ahrefs, SEMRush, Keywor...

I think it's okay, but I just don't know if it's ok now in the US.

I would forget link building and focus on traffic generation. While the latter will affect the former each mindset emphasizes something different. Writing content for re...

Until the old domain no longer appears in search. Unless you also have physical content (business cards, pamphlets, etc) in the wild. If that's the case I would keep it r...

Exactly^ High quality links only, the more the better. We are talking extreme competition, so you need much more than just a random link. Also, link from forum like this...