Since everyone has answered most of your questions fairly well I will just pipe in with my links. I hope you like to read

Here is a really good FAQ site.
http://www.njboxers.com/faqs.htm

A site made by a lady who really knows her stuff. She would be a great person to contact if you have any questions.
http://www.rawdogranch.com/

As for cost most people find that if they shop around enough they are able to provide the food for cheaper than a high quality kibble.

I feed Innova to my dogs (and supplement with raw on the weekends) for less than $10.00/week.

If you use a premade raw diet then your costs will be higher than if you make it.