What the hell, I clicked "post quick reply" and everything dissapeared. I'll try again, but the short version this time.

Warmth: Not necessary but will help sprout sooner. I've always just set them on the kitchen counter. Heat mats and timers at walmart and hydro stores.

Light: Darkness will better simulate nature, but the two layers of paper towels on top seems to work fine for me.

Sterilization, distillation, PH adjustment: Not necessary for seeds and nearly unnecessary for everything else (except PH).

Bad seeds from seed banks: I suppose it's possible, but I've never heard of it.

good luck.