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. 

It's really just looking at the comparable homes in the area that are updated in a style similar to your proposed renovations.

I am not saying you wont find a gem, but you can be sure much has been picked through already (unless they sell them auction-style), which leaves the properties that are less desirable, and plenty of these aren't worth getting for free!!!