you can also get your local forester involved, , they can also be a big tool to use to make your land better, but getting rid of less than desirable tree's, with little use to wildlife, and possibly put a few bucks in your pocket as well!
soil conservation office can also be a tool to use to see what soil types you have to, know what things will grow best there to plant
you can also try joining the quality deer management association, (
https://www.qdma.com/ ) , and try asking there, for help, possibly find a local person to help you.
OR you can just think about things yourself and make and build as you feel will work best!
there is a lot of self gratification in planning and building and seeing things come together!
I have helped several land owners over the last few decades guild things, and all in the end, ended up liking what all was done, there will always be learning curves no matter who does the work or plans, as , like most things in life, , things happen unforeseen and you have to re do, or adapt as they unfold!
as for equipment, much can be rented and used, , or as time goes buy adding it to your collection, as if your going to build and plant food plots your going to end up needing to have things like a tractor, and implements to maintain them, the more acres you have, the more things you will need to stay on top of things
good news is there great investments to have, over always having others do work for you
and if you shop about, you can find great deals on older things that still work just fine and are reliable and easier to work on than the new stuff that costs more!
How involved you wish to get is your choice, , and same goes with how much equipment you will need, be based on what all you want to do and size of your lands and plots!
I doubt any GOOD planner will make you a plan based on maps, or aerial views alone, NOTHING beats feet on the ground and them walking the property to see many things maps and aerial pic's DON"T show!
if your going to pay for help, have them do it right and be on the property making plans!