Rebuilt 318 Refuses to Start

I think I cleared out the carb when I pulled it, but I can't say for sure. I'll take a gander at it today. I suppose it won't hurt to throw some oil down in the cylinders as well. Should I attempt to start it at TDC on the harmonic balancer, or do I want to advance it before I try starting it? Also, is it normal for the gas mist to come out of the carb while cranking?