Visa's for Central Asia and Back?

[firstimeflyer]

Hi there,

Having sorted out our route and itinerary, and with the vehicle getting prepped, the next (logical) stage seemed to be getting the visas done ASAP. However, I have a few questions!

The Visas required are: Russia ( 6 month multi entry business ), Kazakhstan ( double entry ), Mongolia, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikstan, Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Turkey.

(1) As it is such an essential part of the trip, the only part of which we want to have the most certainty and control over, is it worth getting a visa agency involved, or is it feasible ourselves?

(2) Both myself and the friend I am travelling with will be 18 and 19 respectively when we leave ( 5th July 2009), is this an issue and is there a strong case to suggest we will not get the visas? Particularly the Russian one which we are getting from Main..!

(3) How long before the intended date of departure should we apply. Although our itinerary is satisfactory, there may well be some changes which change country entry/exit dates and we don't want to mess with those too much....

(4) Which brings me onto the next question.... is it worth getting a multiple entry for countries other than Russia to allow for more flexibility? Cost is the overriding issue but I'd rather the money goes than the trip!

(5) Finally, regarding the visas themselves, particularly for kazakhstan and the rest of the stans for which do we apply. The tourist visas cover the intended duration of our stay in each country, but do these allow for entry and transit via car at the border?

It may seem like a barrage of questions, but again we would vastly appreciate any input!