Participant(e) anonyme It's OK to submit more documents than requested. I do not know anything about this specific consulate, but there are many embassies/consulates where it takes at least a month. Do not compare your experience with the experience of people who apply in neighboring countries, it usually takes longer when you apply in your home country.
There's no problem with applying through the soft power route and working online, earning foreign sourced income. There's even an embassy (Taipeh) that requires soft-power applicants to have regular, ongoing income.
Read Tod Daniel's answers carefully. He's the one that gave you good advice. You still have plenty of time. Apply for your visa at least, and depending on how long it will take to get it, consider applying for your family there as well.
Yes, losing 400$ is not fun, but it's just a stupid mistake, should not make you think that you're blacklisted forever. You are not, They will welcome your application as long as you meet the requirements.
The travel information part of the form is not that relevant. Just make something up, or say the truth. Give an address for the first month, even without a booking, and you'll be fine.
There is no minimum salary requirement, but apply through the soft power route (muay thai, Thai cooking school, etc.) if you think your freelancer profile isn't strong enough.