no real reason to spread it out. DPS will not really process anything until all your information is received.
Someone has already pointed out the situation with electronic prints.
There is no reason to go to L1 if you have not filled out the online application
or mailed your packet as DPS will have no record of you to apply the prints to your folder.
With what you have said, I (MHO) would take the course and then, at present, you have two years to spend the $140.00 for application. Also I have to say IMHO it is better to
complete everything in the shortest period of time.
For qualifying I would not stress out over practice, practice, practice. I believe for qualifying purposes the average person would be good to go after 150 rounds on a B-27 target.
For competition sure, but for the CHL I would not waste the money on a timer.
These are of course just my opinions.
Good luck.