you prep their housing.
This depends on where you live:
zoning and ordinances
Climate
Property
Number of hens.
Then, if you can have hens
pick a breed for your purpose
You need to be aware of the safety of the flock, and their health.
And each line is a loaded question in itself.
That's why there are many books about the subject, and many articles published on BYC alone.
well, after looking a little. I am confused.
You seem to already own chickens that lay eggs (sorry for your losses, BTW. It is always hard to lose a critter)
So I guess it would help if you had a more specific question.
Like you already posted on the forum.