Hey im sort of a beginner but here is my OPINION... bare in mind it is just my opinion

Q1: In order to grow you will need at bare minimum the following: different sized pots (small pot for begining...big for ending etc), good soil makes a big different, water, and your seed and of course lighting.
->Closet... is do-able i guess. Ventilation is a something you should definitely consider but I don't think it is mandatory.
Q2: First germination of the seed. There are many methods.
I personally prefer taking two napkins/papertowels and wetting them so they are moist/wet but not really holding any water. Put the seed inbetween two sheets folded in 4's that are both wet. Put that inbetween two plates/bowls and in a dark but warm place. for more info do some reading :thumbsup:
Q3: Common mistakes; over watering, under watering, not enough light, giving nutrients too early, and other stuff but that's all that came to mind right now

Just keep in mind in the future, you might want to investigate a way to keep the smell down? if that would be of any worries to you?
Also thought I'd add how many watts if your Florescent light?