Yes I agree, you should have full control. It really is not that hard to do. In this regard I think pathfinder wotr did it much better. Albeit there the problem, they are to expensive. I think a healthy Middle ground would be ideal for BG3.
Yes. You have a grove full of refugees. Finding adventurers who might be willing to join for a small fee shouldn't be too hard.
I actually think mercenaries should only cost money if you dismiss them. While being a part of your party, they gain room and board with you, AND they share equipment and loot as long as they are members of your party. As soon as you dismiss, though, they should want a "share of the loot" especially if you take all their gear before dismissing them. I mean, isn't that usually how adventurers work? They'll join a party for a cut of the loot as opposed to some up front fee?
I also like the idea of starting with a party of 4 custom characters but having the ability to dismiss some later once you pick up some origin characters or the ability to hire more mercs. I think that would be fun.
