Nice input thus far, guys!
I just wanted to toss out a few reminders:
1) This is a player driven game.
2) Freelance crafting is useful for those who actually enjoy doing such things.
I recall many years ago that Sutara spent some good time crafting a Mithril collar for a beloved conc.
There's a system in place for doing such.
a) You have to buy all the material.
b) Role play crafting/working on it.
c) See an OP to have crafted item sold to you at 0mhl.
d) Destroy all items used to make said crafted item.
Here's an example of how Sutara did it. viewtopic.php?f=266&t=19236
3) Using any of a player's skills during a quest such as being picked to lead the questers during the journey is up to the GM.
A player can surely use their skills during that RP if they feel like typing it out. If the GM says that it's nightfall and questers are camping it out til daybreak etc. Someone who knows how to build a fire, can build the fire. Someone who can hunt, can find food.
4) House stuff, wars, intrigue, and other fun bits are, again, player driven.
Here is a comprehensive guide on how to go about freelancing with your skills. viewtopic.php?f=216&t=9407