Congrats!
Although, I can't recommend anyone for those services since Kerhonkson is a bit far from there...
But, for #4, ripping up carpet is one of the EASIEST things you can do! Just pull it up in a corner and start rolling towards the door...
For the floors, we installed the Ikea version of pergo/laminate and it is really quick and easy. Took Smike and I about 4 hours to do an entire room and that includes beer breaks, lunch, ADD, etc!
Good Luck.
_________________________
...anethum graveolens cucumis sativus!