Thank you. I just realized that the banister rail actually goes right through the bottom step - how does one even replace that? If I paint the handrail white though, is that going to look...well...too white? I don't think I like the black idea. (Also, yeah, not handy...haha!)

I have same bannister, hate it to but live with it. Your floors look like mine no stain just natural.

Thank you! The floors have actually not been done that - that's how they looked under the rug that just came up! I was still planning on getting the floors done because they are some little holes from the carpet tacks and also some spots that are a little rough. Given that, should I try the whole stripping thing? Thanks again!

Sanding all of your wood flooring only needs to be done if it needs it. My sister lives in a house that will be 100 years old next year and when she pulled up her carpet, they found a mess since the previous owners let their dogs use the flooring instead of going outside to potty (totally gross)! Your floors look like they are in great shape but you may want to ask an expert if you need them sanded and restained. I suggest you just paint the part of the stairwell that is already white with fresh semi-gloss white paint and leave the top part of the banister alone until you are done. Live with it for a while and see if you like the stair railing better. I happen to love the look of dark wood on top of white!