QWW said:
Northpoint is not usable at the moment.
No. You can create a clan though which helps to be more organized but you can not permanently keep a faction.
You are still able to join the Fort North faction but the fort itself only provides uniforms and Infantry Swords as there is no proper armory in it.
If you wish to join the Faction there is a wooden hut with mercenary training near the wooden bridge leading to the armory in the Colonist Settlement.