Congratulations on your new home :) If it were my kitchen and I wanted a quick face lift I would paint cabinets and walls. Change out the light fixtures. The kitchen seems dark along with the eating area. Good luck!

For a simple start, I would make two relatively inexpensive changes. Paint the walls a lighter color. A seamist blue would be attractive with the current cabinets, appliances, countertop and flooring. Change the window treatments to wood blinds or roman shades. Post pictures of your changes!

I like it! I agree with sooz about the new paint (cream, pale gray, light blue) and hardware. I wouldn't paint the cabinets though. I like how they go with the floors and feel homey. Personally, I'd also swap out the sink. I don't care for how that one blends with the counters, and I prefer single sinks. Either a stainless single-bowl drop in or maybe even an apron sink.

Paint the walls and the ceiling a creamy white to match the backsplash and counters. Replace the large florescent light with a more attractive fixture and patch and paint the ceiling accordingly. Take down the frilly curtains, if the former owners have left them up. That is all I would do before moving in.

After you have unpacked and settled in, you can decide whether you want new cabinet handles, a nice jute runner for the long area in front of the sink, or maybe instead a jute area rug for under the table area, and what to do about new window dressings. You have enough going on with a move and refinishing floors that you needn't burden yourself with all of those details now. Just do the messy stuff that you want to do before you move in.

By the way - I think the current sink is a great sink - two deep and generous bowls. Nice color too.

Wow, love the floors! We love where you've put the table, there's a lot of great potential with a kitchen like this! The best way to utilize this space would be to update the countertops and cabinets so they provide more function and usability. We recommend one part of the counter being butcher block so you can easily prep and chop food. We think the double sink is the right way to go, but maybe consider stainless steel? See below for some of our ideas! http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/33478904/thumbs/simple-shaker-style-with-montauk-cherry-kitchen-cabinets

Thanks everyone! I will post pics when we get it finished!

I would install a catchy pendant light over the dining room table, if you do not necessarily need the fan. Love all the other suggestions. Looking forward to pictures - Have a Happy Move!