I don't use soft paws, I just trim. It is a Saturday morning chore. Very easy to do. I have a set of these:
http://www.petedge.com/product/Groom.../501/44495.uts

Cat nails are quite easy, unlike dog nails. I sit in a recliner (any upholstered chair will work) and hold the cat on my left side, wedged in between me and the arm of the chair. Snip, snip, all done! TREAT and off kitty goes.

I'm right handed; if you are left handed, you will want the cat on your right.

I have scratching posts. Periodically I will rub some catnip on them. If the cats go for furniture (a newbie in the house might), get a spray bottle. Put in equal parts white vinegar and water, and spray where the cat has been scratching. The mixture is weak enough that you won't smell it. Strong enough that the cat will. The white vinegar is what deters the cat. AT the same time, the catnip attracts the cat to the posts.

BTW, I don't recommend those short posts, they are a waste. Cats want to be able to stand and stretch out their entire body, so get a tall one or two!