Tears - I went for the unfurnished option and am happy I did. The quality of the provided furniture is ok I just don't like it. Every day on the silicon website there is someone selling some part of their company furniture so you can pick up odd pieces if you need.
I spent 14,000 on a fridge, stove, washer and dryer - all top line Bosch. You could obviously spend much less. Other stuff I am bringing over.
Consumption of gas, electricity and water is covered by the company.
The money is paid in a lump sum, by cheq, about 4 or 5 days after you arrive.