I am hoping you are correct.I read another post from someone who has the ultimate fixer-upper as a tenant. in addition to that, this one wants everything HER color, and HER style.

Can it be done 'self-help' style or is an attorney mandatory?

We should definitely grab a beer or coffee (whatever your style) and talk more. 

I'd look into and see whether this fits your style.

Depending on what you are looking for, I buy my cabinets at either Hoods (cheap, and good quality/style and available for pickup that same day but, not super high-end) or Cabinets To-Go.

First keep educating yourself on content, then you may be able to pick a niche or investment style. 

I had a hard time moving into a 1BR/1Bath 800 square foot apartment style unit (because we all want a big house with big yard and garage!)

This was a Eichler style house.

You can use a jalousie style window to use the entire opening for ventilation, a cheaper slider for half the area, or glass block as you have now. 

Mine did too at first, but reality set in after a few months of washing dishes in the laundry sink, and having plastic hanging in the shower, her enthusiasm waned.I'm not suggesting you don't do it, just pointing out that the idea of it and the reality of it are not necessarily the same.