[luckydc]

Should I do flooring earlier or later in the project (before or after cleaning and repairs)?

Do the floors later. If you are keeping the cabinets, refinish them first. Why worry about ruining your new floor?

2. Should I remove all the cabinets/fixtures or can I refloor/patch without removing them?

See the answer to your first question. If you are keeping the cabinets (which I hope you are!) and can refinish them in place, why take them out?

3. What is the recommended way to remove the carpeting and floor tack strips? Is it just rip and pull with brute strength or is there a process to follow?

Rip the carpet out. Once the carpet is completely out, it will be easy to just pull the tacks and strips out.

4. Any other tips/lessons learned that I should follow?

Patience!