Same here mate.
I think more freelancers coming in your sector and fiverrs algo giving all the new sellers a chance lead you to this. Also the main reason would be current economy.
1. Remove malware Website And database (sometimes you just remove scripts from file but codes stays at database, make sure you check those out too)
2. Regenerate XML
3. Request url removal by clicking google links and finding out any redirection ( if you have )
4. Resubmit xml on search console.
Should take about 24 hours if you are fast enough
I think i would choose ionos to save some bucks. Their servers are cheaper and hassle free, i've used most of the hosting servers past 7 years. You can leave a name i can comment on them
Rank Math is great,try youself , whatever you feel comfortable and easy to work with , just use that. You can even use both at the same time but i wouldnt recommend that
You can use chatgpt to write your own plugin. I dont think there are any free or manual plugin available at the moment for woocommerce. So either buy or write your own script to do it. This 2 options are available for you. I have experience with 90% of woocommerce plugins. i might have missed few you can try newer releases.
1. Image optimization.
2. Better server
3. Caching plugin (WP rocket)
4. CDN like cloudflare.
5. Some snippet you can code your own php or js to limit the page load resource.
Depends on your project.
If you are looking for a light theme then you can check Neve pro or Hello elementor. or you can build your own light theme using minimal php coding. Again it depends on project.