Any advice on pulling up carpets?

Sure -

1. Cut a section at a time with a carpet knife (without cutting into the floor!)
2. Roll that section up, and then pull up that section of padding.
3. Use pliers (almost any kind will do, but some are easier on the hands than others) to remove the staples that held down the pad. Pull them straight up, as this will leave the smallest mark in the floor. If they are tight to the floor, tap a small screw driver under them just enough to use the pliers.
4. Then, use a pry bar to pull up the tack board that runs around the room. Those nails are sharp, so use care! Remove left behind nails with a hammer claw or pry bar.

This is a big job; my best advice is to get a professional to help you. It could save your floors and your back.