1) GFCI is required where there is proximity to a grounding device, typically water pipes. So putting them elsewhere is not necessary.

Speaking of electrical safety, AFCI is required on certain receptacles.

And it would be advisable to have whole house surge protection.

Depending upon local code, tamper-resistant outlets could be required throughout. NEC 2008 requires all outlets be tamper resistant, which consists of little doors inside the outlet, which have to both be pushed in at the same time to open. If a child tries to push a single item into a slot, it won't go. GFCI outlets are far more expensive. BTW- Even GFCI outlets have to be tamper resistant per NEC 2008.

I'm curious to hear any responses to the OPs third question:

3. The home is 3500sf and has 4 bathrooms. The builder uses State or AO water heaters. I think it's too big for tankless to make sense. Should I aim for a hybrid unit and if not which line?

Regarding Question 1, GFCI outlets everywhere. I think this is unnecessary as you can just buy much more affordable tamper proof plugs.

Our 5,500 sq ft has tankless heaters and work just fine. I have two Rheem (I would suggest another brand) rated at 5.5 gpm each. We can have 2 showers and a faucet on and still get hot water. Any more is more of a water pressure issue with our well and tank.

Remember that tankless is not instant, you need a recirculating system for that.