Questions before I start removing the carpet

Typically there is a layer of vinyl flooring laid down first. Then it there is carpet over part of the area. Then base cabinets are installed right over everything. Carpet is generally laid by somebody with an air stapler who gets paid by the number of staples he uses per day. There will be literally thousands of staples everywhere. A pair of side cutters, a 3 inch wide putty knife, a good razor knife, and a straight blade screwdriver and hammer should be all you will need. Don't forget your knee pads. Use the putty knife to slide across the entire floor and the screwdriver and side cutters to pull all staples found.