general visitor help

[rdrc12345]

I am very new to this and the UKBA website seems absolutely terrible for getting any useful information and i have had a good couple of hour scroll through these forums and would just like to double check:

(i have multiple points, if anyone can help any of them that would be much appreciated!)

1) Does proof of accommodation i.e. utilities bills have to be for a certain time period? (i.e. 3 months worth?)

2) As a sponsor can I use photocopies of passport/pay slips/utility bills/bank statements/tenancy agreement etc.?
My gf is applying from her country in person and needs them there so would rather not send all my personal and financial original information in the post to her country if needs be. If i have to is there official embassy addresses to send supporting documents of an application to?

3) is there anywhere in the UK we can bring or send our originals copies to, so we can have them verified?

4) Can we submit the entire application with supporting documents via post to an official place in UK for her (and she just have to term up to have biometric done in her country?) (what is the postal address you send your application to?)

5) she has land/property in her name but the forms are in her native language. if she applies from the embassy in her country does she still need translations?

Hope someone can help,
Thanks in advance

Rich

[rdrc12345]

oh sorry and

6) do you book your plane tickets before visa approval?
(website recommends not to but seems like lots of people recommend to do this?)