Well if there is nothing Fantastical in it why would it be fantasy?
A very good series, but no, not fantasy.
Depends on you, I've tried a lot of things, I've found I can't outline otherwise I don't want to write, I've found I have to just skim write the opeing and get to the action for the same reason. Brandon Outlines with a passion, and so do others, find out what works for you.
I would say more by feel than anything.