I always prefer to start with research, but the scope is tailored to the task. If there's already solid insight about the users, we can move faster to wireframes and design. If you're unsure what users actually need, research is worth the money.
Very closely. I work in iterations and share sketches and prototypes along the way, so you see the direction develop instead of only getting a finished result at the end. That makes it easy to adjust course along the way.
I typically work solo on the UX/UI design itself, but I'm happy to join your existing team of developers, product owners or other stakeholders. I'm used to collaborating closely with developers, so the design can actually be built as intended.
It happens, and it's completely fine. Because I work in iterations with ongoing feedback, we usually spot quickly if something isn't hitting the mark, and adjust before unnecessary time has been spent in the wrong direction.