Upstart PCs, Looking to try something a bit different. Options

[CynthiaCM]

I'd like to run a campaign wherein the PCs are gearing up to begin their careers as Shadowrunners. My group enjoys a heavy amount of interaction and feel it would be fun to role-play how the characters begin their lives in the shadows. I find the notion pretty enticing too. The campaign would start up probably a few months from them attempting to get their first job (their initial jobs would be very "minor league" stuff until they get built up). It may sound boring to a lot of folks, but it has sent my imagination into overdrive.

Here's the problem: I'm not really sure how to create characters of this nature. So, I figured I would get some advice from you guys and gals.

How many BP should I give them?

What restrictions on gear should I impose (since they'll be role-playing the acquisition of much of their gear)?

Should they have skill rating restrictions?

What else do you recommend?