So, trying out the bilestomper build. And wondering how important it is to take the followers with me. they just seem to get in the way. only missing 1 and want to just have them hang out at my stronghold mostly. With this build I pretty much don't need them. but will I miss anything game important without them? Also  what triggers the stronghold quests? building it is been slow. have gotten father teeth and a cloak quest so far. still havin trouble getting the diving helmet and bracers of power. any help would be great thank you.

You can play solo no problem. The things you will miss: companion quests (nothing too important) and party banter (sometimes quite entertaining).