Sorry, now I just think you really don't know what you are doing. There wouldn't have been MDF in 1960's cabinets. And carcasses can be raised quite easily. I just think you are going to be uber shocked ( ) when you actually price out cabinetry. I sincerely hope you know how to properly build a tile countertop as well as there are very specific things that are required... Your reno list and budget really aren't realistic, even with DIY'ing...
Thinking seriously about the 4 S's...Sun, Sand, Surf and ... Booked for Sept in Mexico and booked Samana DR for Jan!