It sounds like the 1st step is a "heavy up" to a 200 amp electrical panel. A 1947 house will probably also have 2 wire ungrounded outlets. You could rewire completely with new NM-B cable, but with a rambler you may be able to just have the electrician add a ground to some of the outlets.

As a minimum I would have the electrician fix any wiring issues with the kitchen, bath, laundry and HVAC first. If you can remove the ceiling in the basement you should be able to use the basement and attic to run any new wiring.

Bruce