So when the land rush goes live, how much of the game do I have to play through to get to claim a deed? And can I start playing before my assigned slot, but just not claim a lot? For example if I want to get a lot in port graff, that can be through 2 control points, which can get hairy if I've just spawned into the game and have no skills, but I don't get to claim for two days or so. Can I use that time I am homeless to build my avatar to get through the control points?
You can start playing before lot (and I'd highly suggest it). You can reach it without leveling, but I'd suggest against it. You can also grab your lot and then delete your character and start over without losing your claimed lot (just make sure to dump everything else in your inventory into the bank).
I have a question during the real land rush.. Can i grab a lot change my mind and grab another or will that be restricted?????
You can change your lot whenever you like. BurningToad even mentioned that you do not have to unclaim the other lot first, you just select the deed in your deed window and apply it to the new property and it will switch it over.
In the telethon, 3:43:50 "you don't have to unclaim and chance losing out on the new one... If you select the currently claimed deed and claim a new lot."
I'm not sure what you mean by "consumes the deed". It's currently working as @AmaraTytonidae describes. When you are in the process of claiming a lot, you can use any deed that is listed in the deeds menu ("U"). If the deed has already been used to claim another lot, you are asked if you want to switch it to the new lot. Of course, any house and deco you have on the old lot will go to the local bank.