I’m in Alaska so have no idea about the VA questions but
#3 - probably no way. We got 2.5% a year ago through Navy federal
#4 - depends on how close to your electrical panel. I paid $500 for the wall connector and then another $150 for materials, wired/installed it all myslef then had an electrician “tie it in”. Mine is directly next to my panel and it cost me ~$750.
#5 - had it for 1 year and I’m at no PM. I mounted my winter tires myself at the auto hobby and swap out my self. But really all there is: tire totation, brake fluid exchange, tires, brake pads,.. so not much.
#6 - we also drive cars for a long time. Before the 3 my wife drove a 2003 MB e for almost 16 years, we plan on keeping the Tesla similarly.
#7 - yes
#8 - if you get the performance you will have to get another set of tires since the performance comes with summer only tires that shouldn’t be used at <50F. The LR AWD comes with all seasons. I run studded tires in Alaska but I would guess they aren’t common your way. And it does great all winter in Alaska so should be fine should be fine down where you are in the tropics
So in short buy one. It’s the future and don’t look back.