I've got over 25 posts and it says permissions may take up to an hour to update, but after reading the other requirements, I don't know whether I will be able to post in that section yet or not? If any moderators could confirm I'd appreciate it.
Takes an hour... Every cron updates it. I'd say give it an hour and a half for you to get permissions. As I can see... You should have the permissions by now.
No, only to start threads. You can respond to the threads that other people start. don't hijack though... just find people offering what you want or buying what you offer.