Answer to the first question....
You need to do a couple of things (Panther Server is a little easier than Jag Server here):
In Jag you will have to decide which directory services you will use: LDAP, or NetInfo. In Panther Server the only option is LDAP, really.
The setup assistant gives you the option to turn dir. services master/host on or off, so maybe you will have to run that assistant again.
Then make sure the "/Users" directory is shared in AFP, guest access on, and "everyone" must have at least "read" privileges.
Then make this sharepoint an "Automount" sharepoint, in your dir. services server. (netinfo/root.. or whatever)
In Panther server, the network-home dir will be found automatically, in Jag server you will have to fill the info in yourself.... (could be tricky).... Found in the user setup.
But, don't forget to configure the Clinet Mac aswell!
In the /Applications/Utilities/ folder there is an app called: "Directory Access".
This one must be configured (LDAP) so that the info must come from the server (fill in IP address). The also make sure the LDAP info comes from the server! Restart the client too.
This wasn't very detailed, but it should give you enough info to get started.
Good luck!