Answer:
1. Try to avail of internet fax service . This one does not need a fax machine and a phone line. Using your internet connected PC with intenret fax tool you can send and receive faxes in few seconds. Compared to the traditional fax machine, this one's very cost effective since you won't buy paper, ink and pay for the phone bill. Very efficient in transferring documents overseas.
2. I think you may try some fax software. It has lots of function than the windows fax. I have been using Joyfax Server for quite a long time and it is good. Though internet fax service seems very convenient and costs litter, I think it is much safer to have your own fax number. Also, if you want to fax when there is no internet, what can you do? You may check here: http://www.joyfax.com