I capped my GC seals long ago; I want that rank-up ASAP. The rest seems like lot of work and I'm pretty lazy already, but it's a good idea if you want that boost right out the gate.
Also I sorta wish we could trade level allowances... I only need a few more for my gathering title...but I digress.

Maybe try to clear out your Retainers' inventories? So you have more room to hoard new stuff.
M... I can't think of anything else that you haven't said already...