1) I agree with Sadiemae
2) I would prefer to provide my own batting when I longarm for someone. I don't like the big light fluffy stuff -- too much lint. As for basting. The machines require the layers to be put on separately. Then I machine baste across the top. You, as the quilt top provider, will not baste the layers together.
3) I have the computer....and I believe others will say this, if you want meandering/stippling, it's easier to do that freehand. If you want fancy designs, I'm going to use the computer (that's why we paid big $$ for it!). Some really REALLY talented women can do the designs freehand.