Federal and State Historic Preservation Tax Credits

Does anybody have experience with applying for and receiving Federal and State Historic Preservation Tax Credits? (http://nysparks.com/shpo/tax-credit-programs/documents/TaxCreditProgramsComparisonChart.pdf) I am about to start renovation a brownstone with a garden rental and want to maximize the available tax credits. Can I expect to successfully navigate this process by myself with the help of my architect and contractor or should I consider hiring a professional accountant, lawyer, expediter, etc.? Any tips, advice, or recommendations appreciated.