Yes possible the next day. I did mine the same day my non-o expired. You go to another country (I went to cambodia) and you apply through the e visa website. Good luck!
Yes that will be fine. I applied with only 4 nights booked. I did add a coverletter explaining that I would either extend my stay in that hotel or book another one depending on my experience. I also stated that I understand I have to stay in their jurisdiction until a decision is made. I got it approved, no further questions asked.
Place of issues means where you got your passport. It says it on your passport. For example, I am from Belgium but I got my last passport in bangkok so place of issue in my case is bangkok and not Brussels or Belgium.. look at your passport!
I think that you've seen conflicting information because not everyone is asked for the same documents. It depends a lot on the embassy where you apply so check that website and see what documents they want from you.
I think there is no requirement to run your company for any number of years so in theory you should be fine if you meet all other requirements, especially the business proof and financial proof.
But again it is up to the embassy, they can request more docs than what is originally listed on their site.